fixation: Meaning and Definition of

fix•a•tion

Pronunciation: (fik-sā'shun), [key]
— n.
  1. the act of fixing or the state of being fixed.
    1. reduction from a volatile or fluid to a stable or solid form.
    2. the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into a useful compound, as a nitrate fertilizer.
  2. the process of rendering an image permanent by removal of light-sensitive silver halides.
  3. a partial arrest of emotional and instinctual development at an early point in life, due to a severe traumatic experience or an overwhelming gratification.
  4. a preoccupation with one subject, issue, etc.; obsession: All her life she had a fixation on stories of violent death.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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