fanaticism

[fuh-nat-uh-sahyz-uhm]

noun

1. fanatical character, spirit, or conduct.

fanaticism

/ fəˈnætɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. wildly excessive or irrational devotion, dedication, or enthusiasm

Word History and Origins

Origin of fanaticism¹

First recorded in 1705–15; fanatic + -ism

Example Sentences

"In short, investigating fanaticism is not merely descriptive -- it is developmentally informed prevention that protects public health and strengthens democratic cohesion. When we discuss fanaticism, the facts speak for themselves."

Read more on Science Daily

In addition to an uncommon skill set, companies trying to win in the hypercompetitive AI arena are scouting for commitment bordering on fanaticism.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

If you think about it long enough, the sport as it exists within American culture is downright dystopic, garnering fanaticism that drives players to violent ends.

Read more on Salon

That blueprint for reversing progressive policies asserted that “the Biden Administration’s climate fanaticism will need a whole-of-government unwinding.”

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He urged the media to focus on reporting the truth instead of taking part in partisan divisions, and not to give space to "fanaticism and hatred."

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• bigotry 
• extremism 
• hatred 
• intolerance 
• zeal 
• zealotry 

When To Use

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.