fetishistic
UK[ˌfet.ɪˈʃɪs.tɪk]US[ˌfet̬.əˈʃɪs.tɪk]
adj
Relating to or characterized by fetishism, especially sexual fetishism.
adj
Showing an excessive and irrational devotion to or reverence for an object or activity.
Morpheme Breakdown
fetish
ist
ic
fetish
ist
ic
of, pertaining to, or characteristic of
Etymology
The word 'fetishistic' is built upon the noun 'fetish', which entered English via Portuguese traders' term 'feitiço' for objects worshipped as magical charms by West African peoples. This Portuguese word itself derives from the Latin 'factīcius', meaning 'artificial' or 'manufactured', highlighting the human-made nature of such objects. The suffix '-ist' was added to form 'fetishist', denoting a person devoted to fetishism, and the adjectival suffix '-ic' was subsequently appended. Thus, the literal morphemic construction 'fetish-ist-ic' logically builds the meaning: 'pertaining to or characteristic of one who has a devotion to (originally magical, now often sexual) manufactured objects or specific practices.'
Analysis
Structure: fetish + ist + ic
- fetish: From Portuguese 'feitiço' (charm, sorcery), from Latin 'factīcius' (artificial, manufactured). Functions as the core noun root.
- ist: A suffix of Greek origin via Latin, denoting an agent or adherent of a practice. Functions as a noun-forming suffix.
- ic: A suffix of Greek origin via Latin and French, meaning 'of, pertaining to, or characteristic of'. Functions as an adjective-forming suffix.
Examples
The collection had a fetishistic quality, with each item meticulously cataloged and revered.
His approach to the ritual was almost fetishistic in its attention to minor details.
The film explores the fetishistic obsession of the main character with a specific type of shoe.