cathect

verb

ca·​thect kə-ˈthekt How to pronounce cathect (audio)
ka-
cathected; cathecting; cathects

transitive verb

: to invest with mental or emotional energy

Examples of cathect in a Sentence

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.
The process of attaching to, and investing emotions in, a person is known as 'cathecting'. Janey Starling, refinery29.com, 10 Apr. 2020

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from cathectic

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cathect was in 1925

Dictionary Entries Near cathect

Cite this Entry

“Cathect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cathect. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

cathect

transitive verb
ca·​thect kə-ˈthekt, ka- How to pronounce cathect (audio)
: to invest with mental or emotional energy
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