Obsess

/əˈsɛs/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To preoccupy or fill the mind of someone to an extreme or unhealthy degree.

He tends to obsess over every detail of his work, often losing track of time.

To think about something continually or persistently.

She couldn't help but obsess about her upcoming exam.

To have a persistent fixation on a particular idea, activity, or person.

Many fans obsess over their favorite celebrities, following their every move.

Late Latin 'obsessus', from 'obsidere' meaning 'to besiege'.

obsess over:

To think about or dwell on something repeatedly.

get obsessed:

To become excessively concerned or immersed in something.

To be totally into something or someone.

He's obsessed with that new video game.

To stalk or monitor someone closely.

She's kind of obsessed with her ex's social media.