Thanatos

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈθænəˌtos/

Origin

From Ancient Greek Θάνατος.

Full definition of Thanatos

Proper noun

1. (Greek god) The god of death, (specifically of a peaceful death), and twin brother of Hypnos (god of sleep); the Greek counterpart of Mors.

Noun

1. (psychoanalysis) the death drive in Freudian psychoanalysis.

Usage notes

Freud did not use the term “Thanatos” – instead he used Todestrieb ("death drive") – and scholarly works refer to it as “death drive”, but the term “Thanatos” is commonly used in psychoanalysis, in duality with Eros, having been introduced there by Paul Federn.

Civilization and its discontents, Freud, translator James Strachey, 2005 edition, p. 18

Antonyms

• (death drive) Eros life drive