obsessed

The word “obsessed” means completely preoccupied with one thing, to an unhealthy or extreme degree. In plain terms, so focused on one thing that you can barely think about anything else.

“Obsessed” is pronounced uhb-SEHST (/əbˈsɛst/ in IPA).

Here is “obsessed” used in a sentence: “She became obsessed with fitness after joining the gym.”

“Obsessed” is an adjective.

“Obsessed” is a fairly common word in modern English.

Passionate describes strong enthusiasm or love for something and is usually positive, while obsessed means completely preoccupied with one thing to an unhealthy or extreme degree. Calling someone passionate praises their commitment; calling them obsessed suggests the interest has taken over too much of their life.

The standard collocation is obsessed with, as in "she is obsessed with football." Obsessed by is also correct, especially for feelings that take hold of someone, as in "obsessed by jealousy." Obsessed about is heard in casual speech but is best avoided in careful writing.

In its strict sense, yes: obsessed means preoccupied with one thing to an unhealthy or extreme degree. In informal modern usage, however, it is often playful exaggeration for simply loving something, as in "I'm obsessed with this song." Context and tone signal which sense is intended.

Obsessed refers to mental preoccupation: a person cannot stop thinking about one thing. Addicted refers to dependence on a substance or activity that is hard to give up. You can be obsessed with an idea or a person without any addiction being involved.