parasocial

[ par-uh-soh-shuhl ]

adjective

1. of or relating to the connection or imagined connection between a regular person and a fictional character, celebrity, or other public figure: Fans naturally project their values into parasocial relationships, but they are bound to be disappointed one day when their idols aren't who they’ve built them up to be.

   Part of having a favorite TV show is the parasocial interaction that you get with the characters you come to know.

   Fans naturally project their values into parasocial relationships, but they are bound to be disappointed one day when their idols aren't who they’ve built them up to be.

Word History and Origins

Origin of parasocial¹

First recorded in 1960–65; para- ¹( def ) + social ( def )

Example Sentences

Parasocial relationships are the way we relate to the famous now; their social feeds mingle with our friends and family until they all seem sorta like the same thing.

From Slate

Maybe it’s cause matchmaking the Chalamets with fans feels forced like a stan Twitter, parasocial delusion.

From Salon

Yet the discourse around pop music — specifically regarding the fraught parasocial attachment linking star and stan — has changed since the mid-2010s.

From Los Angeles Times

The nature of his death has caused a spectacle for parasocial watchers to solve like it’s a true crime mystery rather than a tragedy that could have been sparked by the singer's long battle with fame and addiction.

From Salon

“Reminder, women owe you nothing. When I’m in my enclosure, tripping over stuff, biting my trainer’s knee, I’m at work, that is the project. Do not yell my name or expect a photo just because I’m your parasocial bestie or because you appreciate my talent,” the comedian said, riffing on the singer's recent statements.

From Salon