Infatuate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'infatuare', meaning to make foolish, emphasizing how love can sometimes cloud judgment.
• First documented use in English occurred in the early 17th century, showing how love and admiration have always fascinated people.

Psychology

• Infatuation often includes intense emotions and idealization of the person, leading to heightened feelings of excitement.
• Studies suggest that infatuated individuals may experience a rush of dopamine, similar to the effects of certain drugs, creating a 'high' feeling.

Literature

• Many classic romantic tales, from Shakespeare to modern novels, explore themes of infatuation, illustrating both its beauty and fleeting nature.
• In 'Pride and Prejudice', characters experience infatuation, showcasing how superficial attraction can evolve into deeper understanding.

Pop Culture

• Songs about infatuation often express the blend of excitement and heartache, like Katy Perry's 'Teenage Dream' capturing youthful crushes.
• Movies like '10 Things I Hate About You' portray teenage infatuation, highlighting the charm and chaos that comes with young love.

Cultural Perspectives

• In some cultures, infatuation is seen as a rite of passage before developing more serious relationships, emphasizing its role in personal growth.
• Various traditions celebrate youthful love, illustrating how infatuation reflects broader societal values about romance and relationships.

At position #41,008, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 41005 roamer
• 41006 flossy
• 41007 greediest
• 41008 infatuate
• 41009 unattractively
• 41010 spammer
• 41011 windjammer
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