Definition of the word esthetic

The word "esthetic" can be traced back to the 19th century, specifically to the German philosopher and psychologist, Friedrich Wolffgang Joseph Schelling. In his work, "The Philosophy of Art," Schelling introduced the term "aesthetisches" to describe the mental and emotional response that people have when experiencing art or beauty in nature. Schelling's use of "aesthetisches" stems from the Greek word "aisthesis," which refers to perception or sensitivity. Schelling believed that art had the power to awaken and heighten our senses, leading us to a deeper understanding of the world around us. The German-language term "aesthetisches" was subsequently translated into English in the late 19th century, where it was commonly used to describe the study of aesthetics, or the philosophical discipline that explores the nature of beauty, art, and taste. The American spelling of the word, "esthetic," became popular in the 20th century and is still used today to describe anything related to the appreciation and perception of beauty, as well as its role in art, design, and culture.