fixate

verb

fix·​ate ˈfik-ˌsāt How to pronounce fixate (audio)
fixated; fixating

transitive verb

1
: to make fixed, stationary, or unchanging
2
: to focus one's gaze on
3
: to direct (the libido) toward an infantile form of gratification

intransitive verb

1
: to focus or concentrate one's gaze or attention intently or obsessively
2
: to undergo arrestment at a stage of development

Examples of fixate 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.
Although the general has conservative views, Pakistani officers are socialized into an organizational culture that fixates on India as an implacably hostile neighbor. Aqil Shah, Foreign Affairs, 23 May 2025 Being in a room that is fixated on the future generation of fashion evokes unique sentiments. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 22 May 2025 Another detail many internet sleuths have fixated on is Slaton’s experience with her phone. Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2025 The whodunnit legal saga has for years fixated true-crime fans across the country, spurring an array of podcasts, movies and television shows. Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fixate

Word History

Etymology

probably back-formation from fixation, in part as translation of German fixieren

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fixate was in 1885

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fixate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fixate. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

fixate

verb
fix·​ate ˈfik-ˌsāt How to pronounce fixate (audio)
fixated; fixating

transitive verb

1
: to focus one's gaze on
2
: to direct (the libido) toward an infantile form of gratification

intransitive verb

1
: to focus or concentrate one's gaze or attention
an infant with normal vision … will fixate on a light held before himThe Journal of the American Medical Association
2
: to undergo arrestment at a stage of development

More from Merriam-Webster on fixate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!