fixation

noun

fix·​a·​tion fik-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce fixation (audio)
: 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

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.
These callouts stem from a broader cultural fixation on authenticity in the digital age. Christian Orozco, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025 Weary from the public fixation on his body, which threatened to overshadow the music itself, D’Angelo disappeared into years of grief and addiction, popping up for the occasional feature, though remaining very much in the bunker. Marcus J. Moore, Pitchfork, 15 Oct. 2025 Running in particular has become Gen Z’s latest fixation, and many see the activity as a way to connect with others while also staying fit. Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 13 Oct. 2025 Ways To Cook Delicata Squash I was first introduced to delicata squash just a few years ago, so my fixation is still relatively new. Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 13 Oct. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fixation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fixation. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on fixation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!