Obsessiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a general, sometimes unhealthy, preoccupation or excessive focus on something or someone.

• Her obsessiveness with cleanliness leads her to clean the house multiple times a day.
• His obsessiveness about his work often interferes with his personal life.

Describes an intense focus or obsession on a particular person, thing, or idea, often to an unhealthy degree.

• His fixation on video games has led to severe social isolation.
• She has a fixation on meeting every deadline perfectly.

Refers to a strong, usually irresistible urge to perform a particular action, often as a result of anxiety or psychological need. Commonly used in the context of mental health.

• He felt a compulsion to check the door locks repeatedly.
• Her hand-washing compulsion is part of her OCD.

Refers to a persistent and overwhelming preoccupation with a particular thought, idea, or activity, which can dominate one's mind.

• He has an obsession with staying fit and spends hours at the gym.
• Her obsession with her ex-boyfriend is affecting her current relationships.

This word is used to describe a state where someone can't stop thinking about something or someone. It often has a negative connotation, implying an unhealthy fixation.

• His obsessiveness with cleanliness made it difficult for him to relax.
• Her obsessiveness with work caused strain in her personal relationships.

Infatuation is a short-lived but intense passion or admiration for someone or something. It often has romantic connotations and suggests something less serious or enduring than true love.

• His infatuation with the new girl in class was obvious to everyone.
• She mistook her infatuation for real love, but it faded quickly.

Mania describes an extreme enthusiasm or desire for something. It often suggests an irrational and uncontrollable zeal, and can have a negative or medical implication, especially in mental health.

• He was in a mania of excitement after winning the lottery.
• Her shopping mania was starting to worry her friends.

Devotion indicates a deep and genuine love or commitment to someone or something. It is used in positive contexts and suggests loyalty and dedication.

• Her devotion to her family is truly admirable.
• The team's devotion to their project led them to success.