Definition

To give excessive or irrational devotion or attention to something, treating it as if it has special significance or power.

Example

Many people fetishize certain brands, believing they are superior to others.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how people tend to fetishize certain trends lately?

Yeah, it's interesting how quickly things can become 'must-haves'.

Right? It's like everyone feels pressured to keep up with what's popular.

Totally! Sometimes I wonder if we really need all that stuff.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fetishize → It is formed from "fetish" (from French *fétiche*, meaning an object of worship or devotion) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word "fetishize" means to make something into an object of excessive devotion or obsession.

Memory Tip

Think of an object of worship ('fetish') and how 'to make' ('-ize') it into something you obsess over. This helps you remember that to fetishize means to turn something into an object of excessive devotion.

Visually Confused Words