Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪnˌfætjʊˈeɪʃən/

Definitions

• An intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something.
• A strong feeling of attraction that is typically irrational and fleeting.
• Excessive attachment or love, often characterized by idealization and obsession.

Usage Examples

• Her infatuation with the actor lasted only a few months before she moved on to the next celebrity.
• He became infatuated with the idea of traveling the world, abandoning his job and family.
• His infatuation with her led him to overlook her flaws and imperfections.

Etymology

From the Latin "infatuatio," meaning to make foolish. The root "infatuare" comes from "fatuus," meaning foolish. The word entered English in the early 17th century and originally referred to being made foolish or obsessed with something in an irrational way.

Synonyms

• Obsession
• Enchantment
• Passion
• Adoration
• Infatuation

Antonyms

• Indifference
• Detachment
• Disinterest
• Disenchantment

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "infatuation" has no major regional variations in standard English pronunciation, though variations in vowel sounds may occur based on regional accents, particularly in non-native English-speaking countries.

Historical Usage

The term "infatuation" has been used in English since the 16th century and was originally meant to refer to a foolish obsession or passion. Over time, it came to be associated with romantic love or admiration, particularly when it is intense but short-lived. The word was often used to describe fleeting feelings of attraction that lacked the depth or stability of true love.

Cultural Nuances

Infatuation is often seen in popular culture as a transient and intense form of romantic attraction, typically associated with youth or the beginning stages of a relationship. In some cultures, infatuation is seen as a natural part of personal growth and emotional exploration, while in others, it may be viewed as something to be wary of due to its fleeting and often irrational nature. In many romantic comedies and stories, infatuation serves as a narrative device that eventually gives way to more enduring love or affection.

More Information

Infatuation is commonly described as an intense, often overwhelming attraction to someone or something. While similar to love, it is generally considered to be more fleeting and less grounded in reality. People who are infatuated may idealize the object of their affection and overlook any flaws or negative aspects. This emotional state is often seen as a natural part of the human experience, especially during the early stages of relationships or in the context of unrequited love. However, infatuation can also be harmful if it leads to obsessive behavior or causes one to make irrational decisions based on an unrealistic idealization of another person or object.