The term is taken from the name of the Marquis de Sade (1740-1814) a French aristocrat who was infamous for his writings and exploits which involved many sexual practices including sadism.
A person who revels in sadism is called a sadist and such behavior is called sadistic.
Sadism can range from the relatively benign activity of the BDSM (Bondage and Sado-Masochism) community to the horrific actions of sociopathic and psychopathic sexual sadists.
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