fanatical
UK[fəˈnætɪkəl]US[fəˈnætɪkəl]
adj
Believing something too strongly and behaving in an unreasonable way because of it
adj
Extremely enthusiastic about something
Morpheme Breakdown
fanatic
al
fanatic
fanatic
al
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'fanatical' originates from the Latin 'fanaticus', which described a person inspired or possessed by a deity, often in a state of religious frenzy. This term derived from 'fanum', meaning temple, linking the frenzied behavior to sacred spaces and rites. Over time, the meaning broadened from religious zeal to describe any extreme, uncritical enthusiasm or devotion to a cause, belief, or activity. The suffix '-al' was added to form the adjective, characterizing someone or something as exhibiting the qualities of a fanatic.
Analysis
Structure: fanatic (fanatic) + al (adjective suffix)
'fanatic' from Latin 'fanaticus' (inspired by a deity, frenzied), from 'fanum' (temple). '-al' from Latin '-alis' (adjective-forming suffix).
Examples
He was a fanatical supporter of the political movement.
She is fanatical about cleanliness and order.
Their fanatical devotion led them to ignore all opposing arguments.