What does infatuation mean?
An infatuation is a powerful, often short-lived fascination or emotional devotion, especially toward a person. The term commonly suggests an attraction so strong that it may distort judgment, encourage idealization, or distract from practical concerns, although it is not always used negatively. “A passing infatuation” implies a brief enthusiasm, while “a romantic infatuation” identifies love or admiration that may be idealized or excessive. In broader contexts, the word can describe intense devotion to an idea, activity, or pursuit. The word is useful when discussing the contrast between strong emotional enthusiasm and considered, stable attachment: an infatuation captures both the intensity and the possible transience or irrationality of that state.
nounAn intense, often temporary feeling of admiration, attraction, or enthusiasm toward someone or something. It can also refer to a foolish or excessive devotion to a person, idea, or pursuit.
- An intense and often temporary feeling of admiration, attraction, or enthusiasm, especially toward a person.
- Excessive, often irrational devotion to a person, idea, pursuit, or activity.
"Her infatuation with the young actor faded once she discovered his less charming qualities."
"The young scientist's infatuation with the theory led him to overlook the weaknesses in its evidence."
"She regarded the singer as a fleeting infatuation rather than a serious romantic interest."
The plural is grammatically standard but relatively uncommon; it is most natural when referring to different infatuations or repeated romantic attachments.
"Her early infatuations with actors were quickly forgotten."
An infatuation can make an ordinary person seem extraordinary—and disappear as quickly as it appeared.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does infatuation come from?
The word comes from Latin infatuare, meaning “to make foolish” or “to make infatuated,” and ultimately from fatuus, “foolish” or “silly.” English borrowed the noun in the early 17th century in the sense of a foolish or excessive love. The word later developed the broader modern meaning of intense admiration or attraction, while retaining the implication of irrationality or transience.
Related word forms
How infatuation is actually used
The word is usually somewhat critical or mildly disapproving when it describes romantic attachment, suggesting that the feeling is stronger than is reasonable or likely to last. It can also be used more neutrally in literary and historical contexts. It is less common in formal business or technical writing.
Easily confused with infatuation
Fascination is a broad, often intellectually or emotionally engaging interest in something, whereas an infatuation more strongly suggests intense, sometimes irrational devotion, commonly toward a person or romantic ideal.