Enamour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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enamour
[ɪˈnæm.ər ]
Definition
romantic interest
To enamour someone is to charm or captivate them, often in a romantic or affectionate way. This term is often used in literature and art to describe the act of making someone fall in love or develop a strong liking for something or someone. The feeling of being enamoured can inspire passion, longing, and emotional connections. It suggests a profound attraction that goes beyond mere liking, encompassing deep admiration or infatuation.
Synonyms
captivate, charm, enchant, infatuate.
Examples of usage
- She was enamoured by his artistic talent.
- The beauty of the landscape enamoured every visitor.
- He was completely enamoured with her grace and elegance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Shakespeare often explored themes of love and enchantment, laying the groundwork for words like 'enamour' in his poetry and plays.
- The word is frequently found in romantic literature, representing the delightful yet often tumultuous aspect of love.
- Classic novels and poetry frequently used the term, showing how the feeling of being enamoured was pivotal in relationships.
Psychology
- Research shows that the feeling of being enamoured can trigger the brain's reward system, leading to feelings of joy and excitement.
- This intense feeling often stimulates the production of 'feel-good' hormones like dopamine and oxytocin.
- Being enamoured can also lead to temporary changes in a person's behavior, often making them more generous or affectionate.
Pop Culture
- Movies frequently depict characters becoming enamoured at first sight, illustrating a common romantic trope.
- In music, many songs express the feelings associated with being enamoured, often highlighting passion and longing.
- Reality dating shows capitalize on the idea of contestants trying to enamour one another within a short time frame.
Art
- Artists throughout history, like Botticelli and Renoir, have depicted the themes of love and attraction, capturing the essence of being enamoured.
- Romantic art often symbolizes the overwhelming feelings that accompany enamour through vibrant colors and expressive figures.
- Exhibitions often feature works that explore love, showcasing how enamour has inspired artists across cultures and eras.
Origin of 'enamour'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'enamourer', meaning to inspire love.
- It is composed of 'en' (to cause) and 'amour' (love), literally meaning to cause love.
- The term has roots in Latin, where 'amor' refers to love, linking it to various modern languages.
The word 'enamour' originates from the Old French 'enamourer,' which combines the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be' and 'amour,' meaning 'love.' It entered English usage around the late 15th century, adapting the romantic essence of its French roots. The term reflects an evolution of language used to express deep emotional connections and affection. Over time, 'enamour' has been predominantly utilized in literary contexts to evoke feelings of enchantment and devotion. This word encapsulates the essence of romantic adoration and the transformative power of love, illustrating how language can express profound human emotions spanning centuries.