Fetish

/ˈfɛtɪʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An object, idea, or activity that one is excessively devoted to or obsessed with.
His fetish for vintage cars led him to spend most of his savings on restoring them.
A strong and persistent sexual attraction to a particular object or body part.
She found it unusual that he had a fetish for high-heeled shoes.
A form of sexual desire in which gratification is linked to a particular object or activity.
In therapy, he admitted to having a fetish for latex.

Etymology

From the French word 'fétiche', from Portuguese 'fetico', from Latin 'féticulum'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sexual fetish
A particular object or activity that provokes sexual excitement.
fetish object
An object believed to have supernatural powers or to embody a spirit.
foot fetish
A sexual attraction to feet.

Related Words

obsession
An idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person's mind.
idolatry
The worship of idols or excessive devotion to something.
icon
A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol.

Slang Meanings

Sub
In BDSM scenarios, someone with a fetish may be referred to as a sub, short for submissive.
Gearhead
In certain contexts, a gearhead could refer to someone with a fetish for car parts.