In Lacanian theory, a signifier which stops the slippage of the signified under the signifier and fixes meaning, thereby forming a stable symbolic order. It is a particular signifier with no signified of its own, which stands in for the "fullness" of the meaning of the symbolic system itself. However, since contingency and lack are taken to be primary in Lacanian theory, it is necessarily arbitrary and is unable to guarantee its own primacy except through arbitrary and ungrounded violence. It is always haunted by the return of the Real.
In my view, this concept is useful but its basis is mistaken. What is repressed is active desire, held down for fear of punishment, and not some kind of ontological void. Lacan is wrong to pose his problems on such a metaphysical level.
by Andy May 7, 2004
Get the master-signifier mug.I would normally be able to do that on my computer, however I recently switched from PC to Mac and I'm still Mactarded.
by Mistress Julie December 29, 2008
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A Mascara Muslim is a muslim woman who dresses in western clothes, wears makeup, and who eschews the traditional practices of Islam.
Although she is from Saudi Arabia and a traditional Sunni family, she herself has become a Mascara Muslim since moving to London. She wears makeup, short skirts, drinks and smokes, and acts thoroughly Western.
by PBCHLS92 February 11, 2010
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They are masters at fishing for ideas and leading you on.
They are masters at fishing for ideas and leading you on.
That Norbert, he is a master-baiter
by whiteson November 18, 2009
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Get the staff master mug.Doggystyle Intercourse on top of a flight of stairs, when the male knocks out the feemale's arms and rides her the entire way down.
Also see bobsled.
Also see bobsled.
by Josh Aussems March 25, 2005
Get the Stair Master mug.is a person that is a master of a small universe. They work for the Lego Company in Denmark and are responsible for any new brick's design, the sets that go on the market, and the models that you see all over the world. Because they get to play with toys for a living they are the biggest kids in the world and are living proof that you can do anything you want.
by blueiniraq November 5, 2007
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