Definition

A state of intense emotional excitement or passion, often believed to be inspired by beautiful young women or nymphs in mythology.

Example

The artist experienced a nympholepsy that drove him to create his most passionate works.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term nympholepsy?

I think I've come across it, but I'm not entirely sure what it means.

It's basically a frenzy of emotion inspired by beautiful young girls.

That sounds interesting! I can see how that idea might have captivated people in ancient times.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nympholepsy → It is formed from "nymph" (from Greek "nymphē", meaning a young woman or goddess of nature) and "-lepsy" (from Greek "lepsis", meaning seizure or attack). The word describes a state of being seized or captivated by the beauty of a nymph or nature.

Memory Tip

Imagine being 'captivated' ('lepsy') by the beauty of a 'nymph' — that's why nympholepsy means being enchanted or seized by nature's beauty.

Visually Confused Words