What does onanism mean?
Onanism is an old term for masturbation, or more broadly for sexual self-indulgence considered excessive or improper. It is especially associated with nineteenth-century medical literature, moral and religious discourse, and legal or institutional attempts to regulate sexuality. In contemporary English, the word is rare and generally unsuitable for neutral medical or educational contexts, where 'masturbation' is the standard term. Its older usage often carried strong moral judgments, presenting sexual self-stimulation as a harmful practice or a manifestation of frustrated sexual desire. The term derives from Onan, the biblical character whose refusal to fulfill his family obligations was interpreted in later religious tradition as a symbol of sexual self-pleasure and divine punishment. Despite its clinical appearance, onanism is now chiefly encountered in historical writing, theological discussion, and older cultural commentary.
nounMasturbation, especially in historical, medical, or religious usage. The term can also refer more broadly to sexual self-indulgence regarded as excessive or improper.
- Masturbation or sexual self-stimulation.
- Historically, sexual self-indulgence considered excessive, sinful, or contrary to accepted religious or moral standards.
"The physician described the patient's behavior as a form of onanism, a term now considered outdated and potentially offensive."
"In the nineteenth century, doctors sometimes discussed onanism as a cause of serious physical and mental illness."
"The preacher warned the congregation against what he called the sin of onanism."
The plural is possible but rarely used because the word itself is uncommon in contemporary English.
"The historical study discusses several nineteenth-century theories of onanisms."
The once-medical term takes its name from Onan, a biblical figure whose story became a powerful symbol of sexual frustration and misplaced duty.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does onanism come from?
The word entered English in the early seventeenth century from the name Onan, a figure in the book of Genesis. Its senses developed through the association of Onan with sexual self-pleasure and with the supposed 'sin of Onan'. Modern medical usage later treated onanism as a formal term for masturbation, before the term declined as the language of sexuality became more clinical and open.
Related word forms
How onanism is actually used
Onanism is chiefly historical, literary, medical, or religious. It is uncommon in modern neutral clinical writing, where 'masturbation' is normally preferred, and it may sound judgmental or archaic.