Fanatically: meaning, definitions and examples

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fanatically

[fəˈnætɪkli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a fanatical manner

In an extremely enthusiastic or zealous manner; with extreme fervor or zeal.

Synonyms

enthusiastically, obsessively, passionately, zealously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fanatically	This word is appropriate to describe someone who supports or believes in something in an extreme, sometimes irrational way. It can have a negative connotation. He follows his favorite band fanatically, attending every concert they perform
zealously	This word is suitable to describe someone who is fervent and highly dedicated to a cause or belief. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context. She worked zealously to complete the project ahead of the deadline
enthusiastically	Use this word when someone is showing a lot of excitement and positive energy towards something in a happy and lively manner. She clapped enthusiastically when her friend won the award
passionately	This word works well when describing someone who has deep emotions and strong feelings toward something in a positive and intense way. He spoke passionately about his plans to start a new charity
obsessively	Choose this word when someone is focusing on something to an unhealthy or excessive degree. It generally has a negative connotation. She checks her phone obsessively, even during meetings

Examples of usage

She defended her favorite band fanatically, never missing a single concert.
He worked fanatically to achieve his goal, putting in long hours and sacrificing personal time.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

showing excessive enthusiasm or zeal

Excessively enthusiastic or zealous, often to the point of being unreasonable or irrational.

Synonyms

devoted, enthusiastic, obsessive, zealous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fanatically	Use in situations where someone is excessively passionate or extreme in their devotion to something, often to the point of irrationality. This word often carries a negative connotation. She fanatically followed every move of her favorite celebrity, ignoring all other aspects of her life
zealous	Appropriate for situations where someone shows fervent or passionate support for a cause or activity, usually with a positive intention but can sometimes imply an overzealous nature. The volunteers were zealous in their efforts to clean up the beach, working tirelessly throughout the day
enthusiastic	Best used when someone shows eager and keen interest or enjoyment in something. This word has a positive connotation. She was enthusiastic about starting her new job and couldn't wait to begin
obsessive	Often used to describe someone who is overly preoccupied with something to an unhealthy extent. It usually carries a negative connotation. His obsessive need for cleanliness made it difficult for him to relax
devoted	Suitable for describing someone who shows strong loyalty and love for a person, cause, or activity in a positive sense. He was devoted to his family, always putting their needs before his own

Examples of usage

The fanatically devoted followers would do anything for their leader.
She had a fanatically positive outlook on life, always seeing the bright side no matter what.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word traces back to the Latin 'fanaticus', meaning 'inspired by divinity' or 'madness'.
In the 17th century, it began to describe people with intense religious fervor, evolving to broader contexts.
The suffix '-ically' suggests a manner of doing something, emphasizing the extreme nature of the enthusiasm.

Psychology

Behavior driven by fanaticism can lead to a very strong in-group/out-group mentality, often affecting social dynamics.
Studies indicate that individuals who are fanatical may have a heightened sense of identity with their interests.
This intense passion can sometimes blind people to alternative viewpoints, leading to conflict.

Pop Culture

Fanatically devoted fan bases are often seen in sports, music, and film, driving intense loyalty and engagement.
The term is frequently used to describe die-hard fans of franchises like 'Star Wars' or 'Harry Potter', where fervor can lead to conventions and fan art.
Social media has amplified fanaticism by creating virtual spaces for fans to connect, share their passion, and organize events.

Literature

Fanaticism is often a central theme in literature, portraying characters who become engrossed in ideas or beliefs, sometimes leading to their downfall.
Classic works, such as 'Moby Dick', illustrate obsession that borders on fanaticism, affecting personal relationships and mental health.
Contemporary literature often explores the consequences of fanatical beliefs in modern society, reflecting truth in the human experience.

History

Historical movements have been marked by fanatical beliefs, such as the Crusades, which were driven by intense religious fervor.
The term is often associated with political fanatics who have influenced revolutions and significant social changes throughout history.
In ancient Rome, fanatical worship of gods sometimes led to extreme rituals and public shows of devotion.

Translations

Translations of the word "fanatically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fanaticamente

🇮🇳 उन्मत्त होकर

🇩🇪 fanatisch

🇮🇩 secara fanatik

🇺🇦 фанатично

🇵🇱 fanatycznie

🇯🇵 狂信的に (kyōshinteki ni)

🇫🇷 fanatiquement

🇪🇸 fanáticamente

🇹🇷 fanatikçe

🇰🇷 광신적으로 (gwangsinjeog-eulo)

🇸🇦 بتهور

🇨🇿 fanaticky

🇸🇰 fanaticky

🇨🇳 狂热地 (kuángrè de)

🇸🇮 fanatično

🇮🇸 ofanatískur

🇰🇿 фанатично

🇬🇪 ფანატიკურად

🇦🇿 fanatikcəsinə

🇲🇽 fanáticamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,783 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
32780 explicating
32781 refurbish
32782 broadsheet
32783 fanatically
32784 corsage
32785 fathomed
32786 transoceanic
...