Main Entry:

ca·thex·is

Pronunciation:

\kə-ˈthek-səs, ka-\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural ca·thex·es \-ˌsēz\

Etymology:

New Latin (intended as translation of German Besetzung), from Greek kathexis holding, from katechein to hold fast, occupy, from kata- + echein to have, hold — more at scheme

Date:

1922

: investment of mental or emotional energy in a person, object, or idea