obsess
verb (used with object)
to dominate or preoccupy the thoughts, feelings, or desires of (a person); beset, trouble, or haunt persistently or abnormally.
obsessing
-
present participleof obsess.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I still have anxieties, but tending to the aging animals keeps me from obsessing over things that don’t matter. My pony, Cliff, is 38. Every day I have with him is a gift. It’s grounding.”
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 2, 2026
He compared autonomy to the development of Microsoft Word -- concentrating on swarms was like obsessing over the button that makes text italic, instead of the whole programme.
From Barron's ● May 15, 2026
He said AI literacy is important - knowing what it is and does, as well as focusing on your people skills, showing your achievements, and not obsessing over long-term plans.
From BBC ● Apr. 21, 2026
“So are people that have been obsessing on modern art and modernism all their lives — they’re gonna be confounded by it.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 8, 2026
All of my obsessing over my regimen for nothing.
From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott
