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fanaticism
[ fuh-nat-uh-sahyz-uhm ]
noun
- fanatical character, spirit, or conduct.
fanaticism
/ fəˈnætɪˌsɪzəm /
noun
- wildly excessive or irrational devotion, dedication, or enthusiasm
Word History and Origins
Origin of fanaticism1
Example Sentences
Thanks to the power of his discourse, of his words, he created a kind of fanaticism around him.
A disturbing aspect of this, says Mr Jukes, is the increasing number of those turning to terrorism because of a fascination for violence, rather than ideological fanaticism.
A deep concern, call it dread or mild terror, knowing where political polarization and right-wing political fanaticism led Germans in the 1930s, and where right-wing extremism appears to be leading many Americans today.
"There were two forces in collision here. One was a force of violence, fanaticism, bigotry, and the other was the force of love," he said.
But the difference is that in this era of parasocial relationships and intense fanaticism, we sometimes jump to conclusions about people who certainly can't aid in our survival or our direct identity formation.
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More About Fanaticism
What does fanaticism mean?
Fanaticism is an extreme and often unquestioning enthusiasm, devotion, or zeal for something, such as a religion, political stance, or cause. It can also refer to behavior motivated by such enthusiasm or devotion.
A person who engages in fanaticism can be called a fanatic, and they or their behavior or beliefs can be described as fanatical.
Sometimes, fanatic is used negatively to imply that someone takes such devotion too far, as in They’re considered religious fanatics due to their extreme practices. Close synonyms are extremist, radical, and zealot.
Other times, fanatic is not used negatively but instead simply refers to someone who is extreme in their devotion or enthusiasm for an interest or hobby. For example, calling someone a sports fanatic means they’re an extremely enthusiastic fan of sports. In fact, the word fan is a shortening of fanatic.
Fanaticism can be used in reference to either kind of fanatic.
Example: We dismiss it as fanaticism, but this belief system may be more widespread than we think.
Where does fanaticism come from?
The first records of the word fanaticism come from the early 1700s. The base word, fanatic, comes from the Latin fānāticus, meaning “pertaining to a temple, inspired by divinity, frantic.” The suffix -ism refers to a doctrine or practice.
The devotion and enthusiasm of a fanatic goes beyond normal interest. Fanaticism is intense, extreme, and often unconditional, meaning it will probably continue no matter what—even in spite of evidence that such fanatical beliefs are wrong or dangerous.
Even when fanatic is not used in a negative way and simply refers to a fan, it often implies that someone is a die-hard fan who will continue in their fanaticism no matter what.
Did you know ... ?
What are some other forms related to fanaticism?
- fanatic (noun, adjective)
What are some synonyms for fanaticism?
What are some words that share a root or word element with fanaticism?
What are some words that often get used in discussing fanaticism?
How is fanaticism used in real life?
The word fanaticism is usually used negatively, especially in the context of religion and politics.
These people seem wired to adore charismatics, discount facts, and deny truth, even when it's staring them in the face. When their idols fall, there's no outrage or disillusionment and no demands for accountability. Is this extreme brainwashing? Is it religious fanaticism? https://t.co/BdHVI4ZJr8
— Keri Haberer (@standupforsense) August 31, 2020
Fixed opinions are the purview of fanatics. We see more and more examples of the result of fanaticism and the actions of terrorists both abroad and local. Yet we fail to see the destructive nature of nationalism, not as it is, a fanatical fixed opinion, but considered patriotism.
— Kameron Kizzar (@KameronKizzar) August 27, 2020
If you enjoyed this season of "Dave," learn about the Philadelphia sports fanaticism of Dave Burd (a.k.a. Lil Dicky): https://t.co/2BmmtXTsqe
— Zach Berman (@ZBerm) May 1, 2020
Try using fanaticism!
Which of the following words is NOT a synonym of fanaticism?
A. zealousness
B. extremism
C. opposition
D. radicalism
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