Obsessed: meaning, definitions and examples

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obsessed

[əbˈsɛst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling

Preoccupying the mind or feelings; continually and intrusively worried or anxious.

Synonyms

consumed, fixated, possessed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obsessed	When someone is constantly thinking about or is overly focused on something or someone. This usually implies a strong and perhaps unhealthy interest. She's obsessed with that new TV series and can't stop talking about it. He's obsessed with his job and spends all his time at the office.
fixated	When someone is stuck or overly attached to a particular idea, object, or person. This word often carries a sense of being unable to move past something, which might be problematic. He's fixated on the idea of becoming famous, despite his lack of talent. She's fixated on her ex-boyfriend and can't seem to move on.
consumed	When someone is extremely focused or preoccupied with something to the point where it takes up most of their time and energy. It often implies being overwhelmed by an emotion or activity. She was consumed by grief after her father's death. He was so consumed with his work that he forgot to eat.
possessed	Typically used to describe someone who appears to be controlled by an external force or an overwhelming emotion. This word often carries a negative or dramatic connotation. It was as if he was possessed by an uncontrollable rage. She danced like she was possessed by the music.

Examples of usage

I am obsessed with finding the perfect gift for her birthday.
He became obsessed with the idea of becoming a famous musician.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

behavior

Strongly inclined or motivated to do something.

Synonyms

determined, driven, focused.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obsessed	Used when someone is excessively preoccupied with something, often to an unhealthy degree. It has a negative connotation. He’s obsessed with his new computer game and spends all his time playing it. She became obsessed with her appearance, checking herself in the mirror constantly.
driven	Used when someone is highly motivated and ambitious, often working very hard to achieve their goals. It generally has a positive connotation. He's a very driven individual, always working late to meet his targets. She’s driven by a desire to make a difference in the world.
determined	Used when someone has a firm decision to achieve something and is resolved not to let anything stop them. It has a positive connotation. She was determined to win the race and trained every day. Despite the challenges, he remained determined to finish his degree.
focused	Used when someone is concentrating deeply on a task or goal without distractions. It has a neutral to positive connotation. He stayed focused on his studies to pass the exam. She remained focused throughout the project to ensure everything was done correctly.

Examples of usage

She is obsessed with achieving success in her career.
He is obsessed with keeping his house clean and organized.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'obsessus', meaning 'to besiege' – like being surrounded by thoughts.
Originally used in a religious context, it described being possessed by the devil or demons, which shows how powerful and overwhelming the feelings could be.

Psychology

Being obsessed can lead to compulsive behaviors, seen in conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Challenges in managing strong obsessions can affect daily life, relationships, and mental health.
The line between passion and obsession is thin; many creative individuals channel obsessive traits into their work, aiding breakthroughs.

Pop Culture

Numerous songs and movies explore themes of obsession, portraying both romantic and unhealthy fixation.
In literature, characters often embody obsession, like Captain Ahab in 'Moby-Dick' who is driven to hunt a whale at all costs.

Science

Researchers have found that the brain of an obsessed person may show distinct patterns of activity, focusing on their fixation.
Studies indicate that dopamine, a 'feel-good' chemical, can be involved in obsessive behavior, explaining the pleasure some derive from their intensity.

Art

Many artists express obsessions in their work, using repetition and detail to capture a singular vision.
Some famous artworks have been created under the influence of obsession, pushing the boundaries of creativity through intense focus on specific subjects.

Translations

Translations of the word "obsessed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obcecado

🇮🇳 मग्न

🇩🇪 besessen

🇮🇩 terobsesi

🇺🇦 одержимий

🇵🇱 opętany

🇯🇵 取り憑かれた (toritsukareta)

🇫🇷 obsédé

🇪🇸 obsesionado

🇹🇷 takıntılı

🇰🇷 집착하는 (jipchak haneun)

🇸🇦 مهووس

🇨🇿 posedlý

🇸🇰 posadnutý

🇨🇳 痴迷 (chīmí)

🇸🇮 obseden

🇮🇸 heltekinn

🇰🇿 әуесқой

🇬🇪 მოწადინებული

🇦🇿 məşğul

🇲🇽 obsesionado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,847, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13844 encroachment
13845 filth
13846 outburst
13847 obsessed
13848 oratory
13849 spanning
13850 armistice
...