Meaning of Word
Infatuation refers to an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something, often characterized by a lack of reason or deeper understanding.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- An overpowering, often irrational, feeling of love, attraction, or admiration.
- A short-term, intense emotional obsession, typically without substantial grounding.
- A state of being carried away by shallow or foolish love or affection.
History and Origin
The word infatuation originates from the Latin infatuare, meaning “to make foolish.”
- In- (meaning “in” or “toward”)
- Fatuus (meaning “foolish” or “silly”).
First used in the late 16th century, it described emotional states that clouded judgment or rationality.
Detailed Explanation
Infatuation is often associated with an emotional high that feels overpowering but lacks depth or long-term stability. It can be romantic, such as a crush, or non-romantic, like a strong admiration for a hobby, celebrity, or trend. Unlike love, which grows and deepens over time, infatuation tends to be fleeting and fueled by idealized perceptions rather than genuine connection or understanding.
Example Sentences
- His infatuation with her faded when he realized they had little in common.
- The teenager’s infatuation with the pop star was evident from her room full of posters.
- Her infatuation with the new fitness craze lasted only a few weeks.
- The infatuation he felt for his colleague affected his ability to focus at work.
- Infatuation often blinds people to the flaws of those they admire.
- His brief infatuation with gambling cost him a significant amount of money.
- The infatuation of the crowd with the charismatic leader was short-lived.
- She mistook her infatuation for true love and rushed into the relationship.
- The sudden infatuation with minimalist design soon gave way to more practical trends.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Obsession – A persistent and often irrational preoccupation with someone or something.
- Crush – A short-term romantic admiration, typically without deeper attachment.
- Fascination – A strong interest or attraction toward something.
- Adoration – Intense admiration or devotion, often idealized.
- Captivation – Being irresistibly drawn to someone or something.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Passion – A strong and barely controllable emotion, often intense but not necessarily short-lived.
- Fixation – An obsessive attachment or focus on someone or something.
- Enchantment – A magical or irresistible attraction.
- Euphoria – A state of intense happiness often associated with infatuation.
- Infatuated – Describes someone who is carried away by foolish or shallow affection.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Admiration – A feeling of respect or wonder toward someone.
- Love at first sight – Immediate and intense romantic attraction.
- Puppy love – An immature or adolescent form of infatuation.
- Hero worship – Excessive admiration for someone perceived as a role model.
- Lust – A strong physical desire without emotional connection.
Antonyms
- Disinterest – A lack of enthusiasm or attraction.
- Detachment – Emotional distance or absence of intense feelings.
- Rationality – Logical thinking free from emotional extremes.
- Indifference – Absence of concern or interest.
- True love – Deep, genuine affection that grows over time.
