Obsession
əbˈsɛʃən
Definitions
A dominating, often unwelcome, thought or feeling.
əbˈsɛʃən
A persistent thought, idea, or feeling that continually occupies a person's mind.
Her obsession with exercise consumed her life.
💡 Simply: It's like when you can't stop thinking about something, like a song that gets stuck in your head or wanting something so badly you can't focus on anything else. Sometimes it's fun, and sometimes it's not so great.
👶 For kids: When you can't stop thinking about something, like a toy or a game. It's all you think about!
More Examples
The detective's obsession with the case led him to work tirelessly.
He developed an obsession with collecting rare stamps.
Her obsession with perfection prevented her from finishing many projects.
How It's Used
"He has an obsession with cleanliness and washes his hands multiple times an hour."
"Her obsession with vintage clothing led her to spend hours searching for unique pieces."
"His obsession with his ex-girlfriend was unhealthy."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
to be obsessed with
To be completely preoccupied with something.
"She is obsessed with celebrity gossip."
an object of obsession
Something or someone that a person is completely preoccupied with.
"The antique car became his object of obsession."
From Latin obsessio, from obsessus, past participle of obsidēre (“to besiege, blockade”), from ob- (“against”) + sedēre (“to sit”). Originally referring to a siege or blockade, it later evolved to describe an idea or feeling that constantly occupies the mind.
The word 'obsession' has existed since the 14th century, evolving from a term related to siege or blockade to its modern psychological meaning.
Memory tip
Imagine a shadowy figure (obsession) constantly whispering unwelcome thoughts into your ear.
Word Origin
"to besiege, blockade"