Fanatic

/fəˈnætɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person with an extreme and uncritical enthusiasm or zeal, especially in religion or politics.
The fanatic held rallies every week to promote his radical views.
A person who is extremely enthusiastic about a particular activity or interest.
She's a sports fanatic who never misses a game.
adjective
Marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense or irrational devotion.
The fanatic claims that his beliefs are the only truth.

Etymology

From Latin 'fanaticus', meaning 'pertaining to a temple, inspired by divinity'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sports fanatic
A person who is extremely interested and involved in sports.
religious fanatic
Someone who strongly adheres to their religious beliefs, often in an extreme way.
fanatic behavior
Actions driven by extreme enthusiasm or obsession.

Related Words

zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals.
devotee
A person who is very enthusiastic about someone or something.
enthusiast
A person who is highly interested in a particular activity or subject.

Slang Meanings

superfan
He's such a superfan that he travels across the country to see every concert.
die-hard
She's a die-hard fan of that band, having attended every show they've done.
addict
Video game addict describes her, as she spends every free minute gaming.