Fanatic

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Fanatic

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and adjective

Pronunciation

fuh-NAT-ik  /fəˈnatɪk/

Definition

As a noun: a person filled with excessive and single-minded zeal, especially for a religious or political cause; an enthusiast. As an adjective: filled with or expressing excessive enthusiasm.

Plain meaning

Someone with an extreme, unshakeable devotion to a cause, belief, or interest — taken to a level that goes well beyond ordinary enthusiasm.

Register

Ranges from neutral to mildly pejorative depending on context. In its shortened form fan, it is entirely positive.