Definition

A strong and often irrational obsession or attachment to something, which can be an object or a specific idea, sometimes related to sexual desire or spiritual significance.

Example

He had a fetish for collecting vintage watches, often spending hours searching for rare pieces.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of someone having a fetish for collecting unusual items?

Yeah, I think it's pretty interesting how some people get really attached to certain things.

I read about a guy who has a fetish for vintage cameras; he has hundreds of them!

That's wild! I can see how that could be a fun hobby.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fetish → The word originates from the Portuguese 'feitiço', meaning charm or sorcery, which itself comes from the Latin 'facticius' (meaning artificial or made). The term refers to an object believed to have magical powers or to which one has an excessive devotion.

Memory Tip

Think of the Portuguese word 'feitiço' meaning charm, which helps you remember that a fetish is an object of special devotion or belief in its magical powers.

Visually Confused Words