cathectic

< /kəˈθɛk siz/. Psychoanalysis.

1. the investment of emotional significance in an activity, object, or idea.
2. the charge of psychic energy so invested.

adjective

1. of or relating to cathexis

noun plural -thexes (-ˈθɛksiːz)

1. psychoanal concentration of psychic energy on a single goal

n.

1922, from Latinized form of Greek kathexis “holding, retention,” from PIE root *segh- “to hold” (see scheme (n.)). Used by psychologists to render Freud’s (libido)besetzung.

adj.

1. Of or relating to cathexis.

n. pl. ca•thex•es (-thĕk′sēz)

1. Concentration of emotional energy on an object or idea.