How Do You Spell WELTSCHMERZ?

Pronunciation: [wˈɛlt͡ʃmɜːz] (IPA)

Weltschmerz is a German word meaning world-weariness or disillusionment with the world. Its pronunciation is ['vɛltʃmɛʁts], with the 'w' being pronounced as a voiced velar fricative, and the 'ch' sounding like the Scottish 'loch' or the German 'ach'. The 'sch' combination is pronounced like the English 'sh' sound. The accent is on the first syllable. This unique word has become popular in English as it captures the feeling of melancholy and sadness that many people feel when confronted with the injustices and tragedies of life.

WELTSCHMERZ Meaning and Definition

  1. Weltschmerz is a German term that literally translates to "world-pain" or "world-weariness." It refers to a deep feeling of melancholy, sadness, or disappointment that arises from the emotional awareness of the world's imperfections and the suffering present in the human condition. The term was coined in the 19th century as a response to the growing industrialization and urbanization, which led to a sense of alienation and disillusionment.

    Weltschmerz encompasses a profound and existential sadness felt by individuals who are sensitive and perceptive to the state of the world, often experiencing a sense of longing for a more idealized reality. It can arise from witnessing the pain and suffering of others, the realization of the brevity and fragility of life, or a general disillusionment with societal values and the state of affairs in the world.

    Weltschmerz is often associated with a sense of helplessness or hopelessness, as individuals are confronted with the realization that they cannot easily change or alleviate the suffering and injustices they perceive. It can lead to introspection, pensive reflection, and a sense of disconnection from others. Weltschmerz has been a common theme in literature, art, and philosophy, particularly during times of social and political turbulence.

    Despite its negative connotation, weltschmerz has also been praised for its ability to inspire creativity and fuel introspective thoughts. It invites a deeper exploration of the human condition and prompts individuals to question the meaning of life, hope, and the pursuit of happiness in an imperfect world.

Common Misspellings for WELTSCHMERZ

Etymology of WELTSCHMERZ

The word "Weltschmerz" is a German term that can be broken down into two parts: "Welt" meaning "world" and "Schmerz" meaning "pain" or "sorrow".

It was coined by the German author Jean Paul (Johann Paul Friedrich Richter) in his novel "Selina" published in 1827. However, the concept of Weltschmerz predates its specific usage in literature.

The origins of the word can be traced back to the Romantic period in Germany, where the idea of feeling a profound sadness or melancholy about the world and its imperfections became popular. It encompasses a sense of dissatisfaction with the world as it is, often driven by the inability to find meaning or fulfillment in life.

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