Definition

A strong but often short-lived feeling of love or attraction towards someone, usually without deep understanding or commitment.

Example

Her infatuation with the movie star lasted only a few weeks before she moved on to someone else.

Conversation

I think my friend has a bit of an infatuation with that new guy at work.

Really? What makes you say that?

She can't stop talking about him; it's like she's in a daydream.

Sounds like classic infatuation to me!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Infatuation is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "fatuus" (meaning foolish or silly). The word describes a state of being foolishly in love or obsessed with someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'not' ('in-') able to see clearly because of 'foolishness' ('fatuus') — that's why infatuation means being foolishly in love.

Visually Confused Words