The term “bohemian” has been used for centuries to describe a certain lifestyle, attitude, and aesthetic. It has been used to describe artists, writers, musicians, and other creative types who reject conventional norms and embrace a more free-spirited and unconventional way of living.
Definitions
The word “bohemian” can be defined in a number of ways, depending on the context in which it is used. Some definitions include:
- A person who lives an unconventional lifestyle, often characterized by artistic or intellectual pursuits, and a rejection of mainstream values.
- A person who is free-spirited, nonconformist, and often associated with the counterculture.
- A person who is interested in or involved in the arts, particularly music, literature, and visual arts.
Origin
The term “bohemian” has its roots in the French word “bohémien,” which was used to describe the Romani people who were believed to have originated in Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic). In the 19th century, the term was used to describe artists and writers who lived unconventional lifestyles and rejected mainstream values.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bohemian is defined as “a person (such as a writer or an artist) living an unconventional life, often in a colony with others.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a person who lives and acts free of regard for conventional rules and practices.”
Associations
The term “bohemian” is often associated with the arts and creative expression. It is also associated with a certain lifestyle, characterized by a love of travel, a rejection of materialism, and a focus on personal freedom and self-expression.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bohemian include:
- Nonconformist.
- Free spirit.
- Beatnik.
- Hippie.
- Artist.
- Writer.
- Intellectual.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for bohemian include:
- Conformist.
- Traditionalist.
- Conservative.
- Materialistic.
- Mainstream.
The same root words
The word “bohemian” shares its root with the word “Bohemia,” which was a historical region in central Europe. The word “bohemian” is also related to the French word “bohémien,” which was used to describe the Romani people who were believed to have originated in Bohemia.
Example Sentences
- “She lived a bohemian lifestyle, traveling the world and making art wherever she went.”
- “The bohemian community in the city was known for its vibrant music scene and artistic culture.”
- “He was a true bohemian, rejecting mainstream values and living life on his own terms.”