cathexis

ca·thex·is  (k-thkss)

n. pl. ca·thex·es (-thksz)

Concentration of emotional energy on an object or idea.

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[Greek kathexis, holding, retention, from katekhein, to hold fast : kat-, kata-, intensive pref.; see cata- + ekhein, to hold; see segh- in Indo-European roots.]

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cathexis [kəˈθɛksɪs]

n pl -thexes [-ˈθɛksiːz]

(Psychoanalysis) Psychoanal concentration of psychic energy on a single goal

[from New Latin, from Greek kathexis, from katekhein to hold fast, intended to render German Besetzung a taking possession of]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

cathexis - (psychoanalysis) the libidinal energy invested in some idea or person or object; "Freud thought of cathexis as a psychic analog of an electrical charge" charge depth psychology, psychoanalysis, analysis - a set of techniques for exploring underlying motives and a method of treating various mental disorders; based on the theories of Sigmund Freud; "his physician recommended psychoanalysis" libidinal energy - (psychoanalysis) psychic energy produced by the libido