Obsess

Definition

Obsess refers to the act of preoccupying or filling someone's mind continually, intrusively, and to a troubling extent.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əbˈsɛs/
• Respelling: uhb-SESS (with "uhb" as in "rub," and "SESS" as in "session")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əbˈsɛs/
• Respelling: uhb-SESS (similar to American English, with "uhb" as in "rub," and "SESS" as in "session")

In both dialects, "obsess" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SESS." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "uhb-SESS."

Etymology

The word "obsess" is derived from the Latin word "obsessus," past participle of "obsidēre," which means "to besiege." This term's metaphorical sense of "preoccupy intensely or persistently" emerged in the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Obsession
• Obsessive
• Obsessively
• Obsessor
• Obsessed

Synonyms

• Preoccupy
• Haunt
• Consume

Antonyms

• Disinterest
• Bore
• Detach

Usage

The verb "obsess" often indicates an intense or excessive focus on a specific topic or idea to the point of it consuming one's thoughts.

• She couldn't understand why that song would obsess her so much.
• Thoughts of the accident continued to obsess him for years.

Related Terms

• Fixate
• Engross
• Ruminate

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To dominate thoughts: To constantly preoccupy or intrude on someone's thoughts.‍
• Example: The idea of revenge began to obsess him.

• To affect deeply and persistently: To have a deep and persistent effect on someone's emotions or mental state.‍
• Example: A fear of failure obsessed her throughout her life.