Definition

To invest emotional energy or attachment in someone or something.

Example

She tends to cathect her feelings into her artwork, making it very personal.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how people cathect to their pets?

Yeah, it's interesting how much love they invest in them.

I think it's because pets offer unconditional support.

Definitely! It's amazing how we can cathect to them emotionally.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cathect is derived from the Greek word 'kathektikos' (meaning to hold or to possess) and the prefix 'cata-' (meaning down or against). The term describes the process of investing emotional energy in a person, object, or idea, thus holding or possessing it emotionally.

Memory Tip

Think of 'holding' or 'possessing' something emotionally, which is what cathect means.

Visually Confused Words