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Craze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคช
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craze

[kreษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

current trend

A craze is a sudden, widespread enthusiasm for something, typically a fashion, activity, or idea. It is characterized by a high level of popularity and intense interest for a short period of time.

Synonyms

fad, mania, trend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
craze

Usually refers to something extremely popular for a short period of time, often suddenly. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • There was a craze for rollerblading in the late '90s.
  • The latest dance craze is sweeping the nation.
fad

Describes a temporary, often short-lived enthusiasm for something. Typically has a slightly negative connotation, implying that it will not last.

  • The pet rock was just a fad.
  • Diet trends come and go, but this new fad is already losing popularity.
trend

Describes a general direction in which something is developing or changing. It is often used in a neutral or positive way to describe something more lasting than a craze or fad.

  • Eco-friendly products are becoming a major trend in consumer markets.
  • The latest fashion trends are inspired by 90s styles.
mania

Refers to an intense, often excessive enthusiasm or obsession for something. The term carries a strong, sometimes negative connotation.

  • The country was gripped by a mania for collecting vintage cars.
  • Football mania sweeps the country every World Cup season.

Examples of usage

  • The latest craze in fashion is oversized sunglasses.
  • The dance challenge on social media has become a craze among teenagers.
  • The viral video sparked a craze for the new dance move.
  • The craze for organic food has been growing steadily over the past few years.
Context #2 | Verb

to become obsessed with

To craze means to become extremely enthusiastic or obsessed with something. It often implies a temporary infatuation or intense interest that may fade over time.

Synonyms

fixate, infatuate, obsess.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
craze

Used to describe a popular trend or fad that many people are excited about.

  • The new dance craze has everyone hitting the dance floor.
  • The craze for avocado toast has taken over social media.
obsess

Carries a negative connotation, referring to a situation where someone cannot stop thinking about something, often resulting in stress or anxiety.

  • He became obsessed with his work, neglecting his family and friends.
  • She was obsessed with losing weight, counting every single calorie.
fixate

Often used when someone is overly focused on something, to the point of it being unhealthy or obsessive.

  • He tends to fixate on small details, making projects take longer than necessary.
  • Some fans fixate on their favorite celebrities, following their every move.
infatuate

Typically describes an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something.

  • Teenagers often become infatuated with movie stars.
  • She was infatuated with the idea of living in Paris.

Examples of usage

  • She crazed over the new celebrity gossip magazine.
  • He crazed about collecting vintage vinyl records.
  • The kids crazed for the latest video game release.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Many crazes throughout history, like the Pet Rock in the 1970s, show how quickly ideas can capture the public's imagination.
  • Dance crazes, such as the Macarena and the Electric Slide, have united people in joyful participation worldwide.
  • Reality TV often sparks crazes where viewers imitate the lifestyles of their favorite characters or celebrities.

Psychology

  • Crazes can often be explained by social proof; people tend to follow what others are doing, creating a bandwagon effect.
  • The excitement from a craze often satisfies a basic human need for belonging and identity within a group.
  • The 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) further fuels crazes, making people eager to join in before it's too late.

Technology

  • The rise of social media has accelerated the spread of crazes, allowing trends to go viral in days.
  • Apps like TikTok have created new crazes around challenges and dances, showcasing how technology influences our behavior.
  • Tech gadgets, such as fidget spinners, can become crazes, leading to massive sales and public interest.

Literature

  • Crazes often feature in stories, symbolizing the extremes of human behavior and societal pressures.
  • The novel 'The Great Gatsby' explores the crazes of the 1920s, capturing the allure and excess of that era.
  • Dystopian literature sometimes critiques crazes, showing their potential dangers and the loss of individuality.

Origin of 'craze'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'craze' comes from the Middle English word 'crasen', which means to break or fracture, linking it to something that suddenly shatters normal behavior.
  • Originally, it referred to a mental state of being 'crazy', reflecting high enthusiasm or excitement.
  • The use of 'craze' in the context of trends or fads began emerging in the early 20th century, highlighting societal shifts.

The word 'craze' originated in the late 19th century, possibly derived from the Middle English word 'crasen' meaning 'to crush or break'. Over time, it evolved to signify a fashion or trend that captures widespread attention. The concept of crazes has been observed throughout history in various forms, reflecting society's changing interests and influences.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,448, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.