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Monomaniacal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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monomaniacal

[ˌmɒnəʊməˈnaɪəkl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

descriptive behavior

Monomaniacal describes a person who exhibits obsession or excessive interest in a single idea or focus, to the exclusion of everything else. This kind of fixation often leads to detrimental effects on the individual's social interactions, decision-making, and overall well-being. Monomaniacal tendencies can manifest in various contexts, including hobbies, professions, or personal beliefs. The term is often used in psychological evaluations to describe a dysfunctional preoccupation.

Synonyms

fixated, obsessive, single-minded.

Examples of usage

  • His monomaniacal pursuit of perfection isolates him from friends.
  • She became monomaniacal about her research topic, neglecting other responsibilities.
  • The monomaniacal focus on profit ultimately led to the company's downfall.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Focused obsession can lead to creative breakthroughs but may also make it difficult to see other perspectives.
  • Monomania is sometimes linked to certain psychiatric conditions, where individuals may fixate on a singular idea or fear.
  • Research indicates that extreme focus can either enhance or impair cognitive flexibility, affecting problem-solving.

Literature

  • Famous characters in literature often display monomaniacal traits, such as Captain Ahab in 'Moby Dick', whose obsession with the whale drives the plot.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters with singular obsessions typically face tragic consequences, highlighting the dangers of losing balance.
  • The exploration of obsessive behavior has been a recurring theme in both classical and contemporary literature.

Pop Culture

  • Films often portray monomaniacal characters as villains, showcasing their extremes to emphasize the stakes involved in their obsessions.
  • Many successful artists and inventors have been described as monomaniacal, suggesting a fine line between genius and obsession.
  • Notable examples include movie portrayals of characters like Howard Hughes, whose obsessive behaviors are both celebrated and critiqued.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers debate whether extreme focus is a pathway to enlightenment or a trap that limits understanding.
  • Some theories suggest that an obsession can lead to innovations in specific fields while ignoring broader implications.
  • Monomaniacal behavior raises questions about the nature of happiness and fulfillment, exploring if purpose can exist solely within a single fixation.

Origin of 'monomaniacal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'mono' meaning 'one' and 'mania', which refers to an obsession or excessive enthusiasm.
  • Originating in the 19th century, it was initially used in psychological contexts to describe a type of mental fixation.
  • The term has roots in Greek, where 'mania' signifies madness or frenzy.

The term monomaniacal derives from the word 'monomania', which originated in the early 19th century. 'Mono-' is a prefix meaning 'single' or 'one,' while 'mania' comes from the Greek 'mania,' meaning 'madness' or 'frenzy.' Initially used in clinical psychology, monomania referred to a condition where an individual is dominated by a single passion or idea. Over time, the adjective form 'monomaniacal' has evolved into both a clinical descriptor and a colloquial term to highlight obsessive behavior in various contexts. Such usage underscores the societal recognition of the impacts that intense obsessions can have on individuals' lives and relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,628, 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.