fixation

noun

fix·​a·​tion fik-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce fixation (audio)
Synonyms of fixation
: the act, process, or result of fixing, fixating, or becoming fixated: such as
a
: a persistent concentration of libidinal energies upon objects characteristic of psychosexual stages of development preceding the genital stage
b
: stereotyped behavior (as in response to frustration)
c
: an obsessive or unhealthy preoccupation or attachment
The never-ceasing interest, even fixation, of the royals was on the preservation of their dynasty.—Warren F. Kimball

Synonyms of fixation

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Examples of fixation in a Sentence

their weight is an unfortunate fixation for many teenagers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The pretty decorative pouch taps into pop culture’s Jane Austen fixation. — Irene Kim, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026 Trump’s discordant message with one of the top concerns voters are voicing ahead of the midterm elections has seemed heightened by his fixation on beautifying Washington and building a large ballroom at the White House. — ABC News, 21 Oct. 2026 No, the scene exists so that Fielder can smuggle in some of his signature comedy fixations. — Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2026 In an industry frequently critiqued for its insular nature and hyper-fixation on dizzying scale, a quiet movement is taking root—one built on the simple, radical premise that real innovation necessitates stepping outside the fashion bubble. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fixation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fixacioun "(in alchemy) reduction of a volatile substance to a form not alterable by fire or another agent of change," borrowed from Medieval Latin fīxātiōn-, fīxātiō, from fīxāre "to so reduce a volatile substance" (verbal derivative of Latin fīxus "firmly established, unchangeable") + Latin -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns; in psychological senses after German Fixation or Fixierung — more at fix entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fixation was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing fixation

Rhymes for fixation

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Browse Nearby Words

fixatif
fixation
fixative
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Cite this Entry

“Fixation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fixation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

fixation

noun
fix·​a·​tion fik-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce fixation (audio)
1
: the act, process, or result of fixing
2
: a state of concern or attachment especially when abnormal and lasting for a long time

Medical Definition

fixation

noun
fix·​a·​tion fik-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce fixation (audio)
1
: the act, process, or result of fixing, fixating, or becoming fixated: as
a
: the act or an instance of focusing the eyes upon an object
b
: a persistent concentration of libidinal energies upon objects characteristic of psychosexual stages of development preceding the genital stage
c
: stereotyped behavior (as in response to frustration)
d
: an obsessive or unhealthy preoccupation or attachment
2
: the immobilization of the parts of a fractured bone especially by the use of various metal attachments
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