ataraxia
at-uh-RAK-see-uh
/ˌætəˈræksiə/
A state of serene calmness and untroubled tranquility of mind.
Refers specifically to freedom from internal anxiety or emotional distress, viewed by Pyrrhonist and Epicurean philosophers as the ultimate goal of wisdom.
The story behind the word. Ancient Greek thinkers constructed 'ataraxia' from 'a-' (not, without) and 'tarassein' (to agitate or disturb, as wind disturbs water). It literally described water that no breeze could ruffle—a mind so steadfast that no external event could kick up waves.
Word relationships
- tranquility: Tranquility is general calmness, whereas ataraxia specifically denotes freedom from mental anxiety in Hellenistic philosophy.
- peacefulness: Peacefulness describes an environment or feeling, while ataraxia is a cultivated psychological immunity to emotional disturbance.
- anxiety: Anxiety involves painful worry and mental turmoil, the exact inverse of untroubled inner peace.
- disquiet: Disquiet refers to a feeling of anxiety or worry.
Commonly confused with
- ataxia: Ataxia is a medical condition involving loss of full control of bodily movements, whereas ataraxia is mental tranquility.
Word family
- ataraxic (adjective): Tending to soothe or tranquilize.
Collocations
- achieve ataraxia
- state of ataraxia
- philosophical ataraxia
- epicurean ataraxia
Idioms & expressions
- peace of mind
- untroubled soul
Example sentences
- "For Epicurus, ataraxia was achieved not through hedonistic excess, but through simple living and intellectual conversation." Classical philosophy discussion
- "In her quiet study surrounded by ancient books, she experienced a rare moment of profound ataraxia." Modern psychological discourse
Memory hook
ATARAXIA sounds like 'AT-A-RELAX-IA'—a state where you are at complete relaxation without trouble. No waves on the mental lake.
When not to use
Avoid using in casual everyday conversation; it is a highly specialized philosophical term.
Fun facts
- In the mid-20th century, pharmacologists named a major class of psychiatric tranquilizers 'atarantics' or 'ataraxics' after this classical concept.
Related words
Explore more words
equanimity, serene, tranquil, unruffled, unflappable, repose
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