Definition

Someone who is obsessed with a single idea or subject, often to the exclusion of everything else.

Example

His monomaniac approach to work left little room for social life.

Conversation

Have you noticed how she's become a bit of a monomaniac about her fitness goals?

Yeah, it's like that's all she talks about these days!

I mean, it's great to be dedicated, but she seems to ignore everything else.

True, balance is important. I hope she realizes that soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who is overly focused on one particular idea or subject, ignoring everything else.

Example

He is a monomaniac about his work, often neglecting his personal life.

Conversation

Have you ever met someone who is a total monomaniac about their hobbies?

Yeah, I know a guy who can only talk about his model trains all day long.

It's interesting how being a monomaniac can lead to such deep knowledge, though.

Root Explanation

Monomaniac → It is formed from "mono-" (from Greek "monos", meaning single or alone) and "mania" (from Greek "mania", meaning madness or obsession). The word describes a person who has an obsession with a single idea or subject.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'single-minded' ('mono-') in their 'obsession' ('mania') — that's why a monomaniac is someone obsessed with one thing.

Visually Confused Words