VocabDictionary

infatuation

/ɪnˌfætʃuˈeɪʃən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something, often foolish and unreasoned.

Example Sentences:
  • His youthful infatuation with the famous actress faded within a few months.
  • What she felt for him was not true love, but a passing infatuation.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “infatuation”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'infatuatus', past participle of 'infatuare' meaning 'to make foolish', from 'in-' (into, or completely) + 'fatuus' (foolish, silly). It entered the English language in the early 17th century, originally retaining the stronger sense of being led into folly by an obsessive, short-lived passion.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in' plus 'fatuous' (silly or foolish)—an infatuation makes you act in a silly, foolish way because of intense, short-lived romantic passion.

Frequently Asked Questions About “infatuation

1. What is the meaning of “infatuation” in English?

In English, infatuation (noun) is defined as: “An intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something, often foolish and unreasoned.”.

2. How do you use “infatuation” in a sentence?

His youthful infatuation with the famous actress faded within a few months.

3. What are English synonyms of “infatuation”?

Common synonyms include:obsession,crush,passion,enamorment

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “infatuation”?

Derived from the Latin 'infatuatus', past participle of 'infatuare' meaning 'to make foolish', from 'in-' (into, or completely) + 'fatuus' (foolish, silly). It entered the English language in the early 17th century, originally retaining the stronger sense of being led into folly by an obsessive, short-lived passion.