ˈsāˌdizəm, ˈsaˌd- sometimes ˈsäˌd- or ˈsȧˌd- noun
( -s )
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary sad- (from Comte Donatien Alphonse François de Sade died 1814 French soldier and pervert) + -ism
1.
a. : the infliction of pain upon a love object as a means of obtaining sexual release — compare masochism
b. : the satisfaction of outwardly directed destructive impulses as a source of libidinal gratification
2.
a. : delight in physical or mental cruelty
b. : excessive cruelty