Infatuated - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

To be 'infatuated' means to be filled with an intense, but often short-lived, passion or admiration for someone or something. It suggests a state of being carried away by your emotions, often to an irrational degree. It's like having a massive crush that consumes your thoughts and actions. 'Infatuated' often implies a lack of clear judgment. It's different from true love, which is based on deeper understanding and connection. Think of it as a temporary obsession fueled by strong emotions.

Etymology

The word 'infatuated' comes from the Latin word 'infatuare,' meaning 'to make foolish' or 'to deprive of reason.' This is related to 'fatuus,' meaning 'foolish' or 'silly.' The etymology suggests that being infatuated can make you act in a foolish or irrational way. It implies a loss of control due to intense emotions. It underscores the idea that infatuation can cloud your judgment and lead to impulsive behavior.

Related Words

Examples

  • "She was infatuated with the new boy in school."
  • "He was infatuated with the idea of becoming a rock star."
  • "They were infatuated with each other during their summer romance."
  • "Don't be infatuated by his charm; he's not trustworthy."

Anecdote / Story

Think of the character Angelica from 'Hamilton.' She's infatuated with Hamilton upon first meeting him, but recognizes that her sister Eliza would be a better match for him. While she feels a strong attraction, she ultimately makes a selfless decision. This demonstrates how infatuation can be acknowledged and managed, even if the feelings are intense.

Encouragement

'Infatuated' is a useful word for describing intense, often fleeting, crushes. Use it to add nuance to your descriptions of relationships and emotions. It helps to distinguish infatuation from deeper, more lasting love. 😉

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