Pronunciation: [sˌa͡ɪkɪdˈiːli͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "psychedelia" is spelled as /ˌsaɪkəˈdiːliə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "sai-kuh". The "sai" sound is like the word "sigh" while the "kuh" sound is pronounced as "kuh" in "cup". The second syllable, "dee", is pronounced the same as the word "die". The third syllable, "li", is pronounced like "lee" in "leap". The fourth and final syllable, "uh", is pronounced as "uh" in "up".
Psychedelia is a term that refers to a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the mid-1960s, characterized by the exploration of altered states of consciousness, vivid and surreal visuals, and a rebellious defiance of societal norms. It is closely associated with the psychedelic drug culture, including the use of substances such as LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin, which were believed to induce mind-altering experiences.
In music, psychedelia often encompasses a wide range of styles, including rock, folk, and jazz, that incorporate intricate and experimental arrangements, unconventional sounds, and lyrics exploring psychedelic experiences and themes. Psychedelic music is often characterized by the use of distorted guitars, echoing vocals, electric keyboards, and intricate instrumental passages.
The visual aspect of psychedelia is characterized by vibrant and hallucinatory imagery, often inspired by the use of psychedelic drugs. Art, album covers, posters, and various visual media associated with psychedelia frequently depict abstract patterns, kaleidoscopic colors, swirling shapes, and fantastical creatures, reflecting the altered perceptions and expanded consciousness associated with drug-induced experiences.
Psychedelia also influenced fashion trends, with vibrant and unconventional clothing styles, often featuring bold patterns, tie-dye, and paisley designs. This countercultural movement represented a rebellion against conventional norms and embraced an ethos of freedom, peace, individuality, and the expanding of personal consciousness.
Overall, psychedelia encompasses a broad cultural and artistic movement centered around altered states of consciousness, vivid visuals, and a rejection of societal norms, with music, art, and fashion being key expressions of this movement.
The term "psychedelia" derives from the noun "psychedelic".
The word "psychedelic" was coined by British psychiatrist Humphry Osmond in 1956. It combines the Greek words "psyche" meaning "mind" or "soul" and "dēlos" meaning "manifest" or "clear". Therefore, "psychedelic" can be understood as "manifesting the mind" or "clearing the mind".
The term initially emerged within the field of psychiatry to describe the mind-altering effects of hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD and psilocybin. However, it later took on a broader cultural and artistic meaning, referring to a style, movement, or experience that is characterized by vivid hallucinations, intense emotions, and expanded consciousness.
