fad

UK: fæd | US: fæd

Definition

  1. n. a short-lived but intense enthusiasm for something

  2. n. a temporary trend or fashion

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "fad" emerged in the early 19th century, possibly as a shortened form of "fiddle-faddle" (meaning trivial matters) or influenced by French "fadaise" (nonsense). It reflects the fleeting, whimsical nature of trends. Unlike compound words, "fad" resists morpheme division, embodying its own compact history of ephemeral popularity.

Examples

  1. The hula hoop was a huge fad in the 1950s.

  2. Social media often amplifies short-lived fads.

  3. He dismissed the new diet as just another fad.

  4. Fads in fashion come and go quickly.

  5. Many investors lose money chasing financial fads.