Definition: A paedophile is an adult who is sexually attracted to prepubescent children. This term is used in both clinical and legal contexts. In a clinical setting, paedophilia is classified as a psychiatric disorder. In legal and social contexts, acts based on these impulses may constitute criminal offences, and the term carries significant legal and social implications.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘paedophile’ comes from the Greek words ‘pais’, meaning ‘child’, and ‘philia’, meaning ‘friendship’ or ‘love’. The term ‘philia’ in Greek can denote an abnormal or pathological attraction. The term ‘paedophile’ has been used in the English language since the early 20th century, aligning with the growing understanding of psychiatric disorders.
