Pronunciation: [sˌa͡ɪɹɪnˈe͡ɪɪk] (IPA) 
The word "Cyrenaic" is spelled with a "y" and not an "i" because it comes from the Greek word "Kyrēné" (Κυρήνη), which is pronounced with a "y" sound in Greek. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /saɪˈriːnɪk/. The "y" in "Cyrenaic" represents the sound "ai" in Greek, and is also used in some English loanwords from Greek, such as "myth", "lyre", and "tyrant".
Cyrenaic is an adjective derived from the philosophy of Cyrenaicism, which originated in ancient Greece and was named after the ancient Greek city of Cyrene. It refers to the philosophical system founded by Aristippus of Cyrene, a Greek philosopher who believed that pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the ultimate goals in life.
In the context of Cyrenaic philosophy, the term Cyrenaic denotes the doctrines, principles, and practices associated with this school of thought, which primarily focused on the pursuit of immediate sensual pleasure. The philosophy emphasized the value of individual experience and advocated for indulgence in physical pleasures, prioritizing the gratification of bodily desires. According to Cyrenaics, pleasure was the ultimate good, and pain was to be avoided at all costs.
The Cyrenaic school also emphasized the importance of self-control and the ability to adapt to different circumstances to maximize pleasure. They believed in the gratification of immediate desires and regarded long-term consequences as less significant.
In broader terms, the term Cyrenaic can be used to characterize individuals or ideas that prioritize immediate sensual pleasure and live for the pursuit of momentary enjoyment without much consideration for long-term consequences. It can also refer to individuals who adhere to the teachings of Cyrenaicism or espouse similar beliefs regarding pleasure and pain.
Pert. to Cyrene, a Grecian colony on the N. coast of Africa.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Cyrenaic" is derived from "Cyrene", which was the name of an ancient Greek city located in present-day Libya. The school of philosophy known as "Cyrenaicism" or "Cyrenaic hedonism" was founded by Aristippus of Cyrene, a philosopher from this city. Cyrenaicism emphasized pleasure, particularly immediate sensual pleasure, as the highest good in life. Hence, the term "Cyrenaic" is used to describe anything related to Cyrenaicism or its teachings.
