What does metapsychic mean?
Metapsychic means relating to mental activity or theories that go beyond conscious awareness. It is especially associated with psychoanalysis and the study of unconscious processes, including dreams, repressed memories, and concealed emotional conflicts. The adjective can characterize a theory, process, interpretation, or analytical approach that seeks causes lying beneath the level of conscious thought. It is a precise, technical alternative to simply saying 'unconscious,' but it should not be confused with paranormal or extrasensory phenomena: metapsychic language in this sense concerns theories about the structure and operation of the mind rather than evidence for telepathy or other alleged powers. Although the word is not extremely common outside specialist writing, it remains useful in discussing theories of unconscious motivation and the hidden processes believed to shape conscious experience.
adjectiveRelating to mental processes or theories that concern what lies beyond the conscious part of the psyche, especially the unconscious.
- Relating to mental processes or theories concerning the unconscious or other aspects of the mind considered to lie beyond conscious awareness.
"She developed a metapsychic theory to explain recurring dreams and buried memories."
"The lecture examined metapsychic processes involved in dream formation."
"Her metapsychic interpretation of the case drew on ideas about repressed memories."
Metapsychic literally points beyond the conscious psyche: it names the hidden mental territory where dreams, memories, and unconscious motives are studied.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of metapsychic
The word combines the Greek prefix meta-, meaning 'beyond' or 'after,' with psychē, meaning 'mind' or 'soul.' It developed alongside the related term metapsychology and was used for approaches concerned with mental processes beneath conscious awareness. English speakers now encounter it primarily in psychological and psychoanalytic writing.
Related word forms
How metapsychic is actually used
A specialized and relatively uncommon term, chiefly used in psychology, psychoanalysis, and related theoretical discussion. It is more specific than the broad term 'unconscious' and is not normally used in everyday conversation.