cathect

/kæθɛkt/

Definitions

1. verb

to direct emotional energy or libido towards a person or object

“The artist began to cathect with the cityscape, drawing inspiration from its vibrant atmosphere.”

2. noun

a psychological term referring to the process of directing emotional energy or libido towards a person or object

“In psychoanalytic theory, cathecting is a fundamental aspect of the human psyche.”

Synonyms

  • channel
  • invest

Antonyms

  • distract
  • divert