Fanaticisms

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An extreme, unreasoning zeal for a particular cause or belief, often leading to an all-consuming devotion
2. A fervent intensity in pursuing ideologies that can result in exclusion or hostility towards differing opinions
3. Excessive enthusiasm or radical dedication that may manifest in unwavering commitment and disregard for moderation

Etymology: "Fanaticisms" is the plural of "fanaticism," so it is a form of a word that entered English in the early 1600s. That base word came from the Latin "fanaticus," meaning "of a temple" or "inspired by a divine frenzy," derived from "fanum," a temple or sacred place. Priests and worshippers who behaved frantically in temple rites were the original fanatics, and the sense of wild religious excitement carried over into the modern idea of unreasoning zeal.

Synonyms: zealotry, extremism

Antonyms: moderation