Fanatic
/fəˈnætɪk/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person with an extreme and uncritical enthusiasm or zeal, as in religion or politics.
/fəˈnætɪk/
A person filled with excessive and single-minded zeal, especially for an extreme political or religious cause.
The football fanatic screamed at the television during every game.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who loves a team or a cause SO much that they'll do anything for it, even if it's a bit crazy. That person is a fanatic.
👶 For kids: A fanatic is someone who really, really likes something, maybe a game or a team, and they get super excited about it.
More Examples
She was considered a fanatic because of her unyielding support for the political leader.
Religious fanatics are often willing to die for their beliefs.
How It's Used
"Political fanatics often resort to extreme measures to achieve their goals."
"The religious fanatic preached fire and brimstone."
"He's a sports fanatic; he never misses a game."
Relating to or characteristic of a fanatic; filled with excessive and single-minded zeal.
/fəˈnætɪk/
Motivated or characterized by an extreme, uncritical enthusiasm.
His fanatic dedication to fitness was evident in his rigorous daily routine.
💡 Simply: When something is 'fanatic,' it's like someone is way, WAY into it – to the extreme!
👶 For kids: If something is 'fanatic,' it means it's like super, super exciting and extreme.
More Examples
The politician inspired fanatic loyalty among his supporters.
The film received fanatic reviews from the critics.
How It's Used
"His fanatic devotion to the band bordered on obsession."
"The party's platform drew fanatic support from the far-right."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Latin *fanaticus* meaning 'inspired by a deity, frenzied'. Originally referring to religious fervor, the term has broadened to encompass intense enthusiasm or obsession for any cause.
The term 'fanatic' historically carried a primarily religious connotation, referring to those whose religious zeal was considered excessive or misguided. Its usage has expanded over time to encompass extreme enthusiasm in various contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a 'fan' with a 'tic' (like a habit) – an obsession for a specific thing.
Word Origin
"inspired by a deity, frenzied"