death instinct

noun

Definition of death instinct

: an innate and unconscious tendency toward self-destruction postulated in psychoanalytic theory to explain aggressive and destructive behavior not satisfactorily explained by the pleasure principle

called also Thanatos

— compare eros sense 2

First Known Use of death instinct

1921, in the meaning defined above

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More Definitions for death instinct

death instinct

noun

Medical Definition of death instinct

: an innate and unconscious tendency toward self-destruction postulated in psychoanalytic theory to explain aggressive and destructive behavior not satisfactorily explained by the pleasure principle

called also Thanatos

— compare eros