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Obsessive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obsessive

[əbˈsɛsɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Characterized by an obsession, fixated on a particular idea, person, or thing.

Synonyms

compulsive, fanatical, fixated, obsessed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obsessive

Use this term when someone is persistently preoccupied with something or someone in a way that may interfere with their normal activities.

  • His obsessive thoughts about cleanliness have taken over his life.
  • She's obsessive about checking her emails every minute.
fixated

Best used when someone is excessively attached or focused on a specific thing or person, typically to an unhealthy extent.

  • She's fixated on her ex-boyfriend and can't seem to move on.
  • He is fixated on the idea of becoming famous, ignoring all other aspects of his life.
compulsive

This word fits when describing behaviors that people feel driven to perform, often repetitively and without rational thought. It has a clinical connotation related to psychological disorders.

  • He has a compulsive need to wash his hands multiple times a day.
  • She has a compulsive shopping habit that is affecting her finances.
obsessed

A common term for being dominantly or excessively preoccupied with a person, thing, or idea, in a way that it captures one's attention almost entirely.

  • He is obsessed with improving his golf game, practicing every day for hours.
  • She is obsessed with her new fitness tracker, checking her progress constantly.
fanatical

For extreme enthusiasm or intense, uncritical devotion to a cause, often to the point of irrationality. This term can sometimes carry a negative implication of excessive zeal.

  • He is fanatical about his favorite football team, going to every match and collecting all their merchandise.
  • Her fanatical dedication to her political beliefs makes it hard to have a balanced discussion.

Examples of usage

  • He had an obsessive need to check the locks on the door multiple times.
  • She became obsessive about her weight, constantly weighing herself throughout the day.
  • The detective had an obsessive focus on solving the case, working long hours without rest.
  • The artist was obsessive about every detail of his painting, spending hours perfecting each stroke.
  • Irrational fears can lead to obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Translations

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

Origin of 'obsessive'

The word 'obsessive' originated from the Latin word 'obsessivus', which means 'besieging'. It was first used in the early 19th century to describe a person who is preoccupied with a specific idea or feeling. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader range of behaviors and thoughts associated with fixation and compulsion. In psychology, obsessive behaviors are often linked to anxiety disorders, where individuals feel compelled to perform certain actions or rituals to alleviate their anxiety.

See also: obsess, obsessed, obsession, obsessively, obsessiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,173, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.