Aesthetes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A group of individuals profoundly appreciative of the beauty in art and nature, often focusing on sensory experiences
2. People characterized by a refined sensitivity to aesthetics, especially in the visual arts and design
3. Those who cultivate a lifestyle engaged with artistic expression, valuing exquisite taste and the pursuit of beauty in various forms

Etymology: "Aesthetes" is the plural of "aesthete," so it simply refers to more than one person in that category. The singular comes from Ancient Greek "aisthētḗs," meaning "one who perceives," built from "aisthanesthai," "to perceive" or "to feel." The Greek root gave English the broader sense of perception through the senses, which is why the modern meaning, a person who values beauty and appreciates art, grew out of an idea about sensing and noticing rather than about beauty as such.

Synonyms: art lovers, connoisseurs