Definition and Meaning of “Infatuation”
Word: Infatuation
Pronunciation: /ɪnˌfætʃ.uˈeɪ.ʃən/
Part of Speech: Noun (uncountable)
Definition
Infatuation is an intense but short-lived admiration or passion for someone or something, often based on surface qualities rather than deep understanding.
Simple Meaning
An infatuation is like a strong crush that doesn’t last. You feel very excited and obsessed at first, but it often fades quickly.
Grammatical Formation
- Noun: infatuation
- Adjective: infatuated (e.g., She is infatuated with him.)
- Verb (rare/archaic): infatuate (to cause infatuation)
Synonyms
crush, obsession, passion, fascination, adoration, enchantment
Antonyms
love, indifference, dislike, detachment, apathy
Related Terms
puppy love, crush, attraction, adoration, mania, idolization
Common Collocations
- intense infatuation
- brief infatuation
- early infatuation
- infatuation with someone
- overcome infatuation
Idiomatic Usage & Expressions
- “Head over heels” (in infatuation) – extremely excited or in love.
- “Puppy love” – childish or very young infatuation.
- “A passing fancy” – a short-lived interest or infatuation.
Sample Sentences
- His infatuation with the new coworker faded after they spent more time talking.
- Teenagers often mistake infatuation for true love.
- She felt a sudden infatuation with the idea of moving to Paris.
- Their infatuation with social media can distract them from real relationships.
- He was so infatuated that he couldn’t think of anything else for days.
Relationship to Sexuality
Yes. Infatuation can include sexual attraction, but it is not inherently sexual. It describes the emotional and often physical excitement toward someone, which may or may not lead to a deeper sexual or romantic relationship.