limerence

/ˈlɪməɹəns/

Etymology

From limer- (“a coined, arbitrary first element”) + -ence. Coined by American psychologist Dorothy Tennov in 1977 as an arbitrary euphonious replacement or alteration of the word amorance.

Why this word is great

LIMERENCE — [Noun] An involuntary cognitive-emotional state characterized by obsessive romantic fixation and acute longing for reciprocation. Coined by psychologist Dorothy Tennov in 1977 from an arbitrary element *limer-* + *-ence*, as a euphonious alteration of *amorance*. Unlike *attachment* (which implies secure bonding) or *crush* (often fleeting and lighthearted), limerence is the mind’s alchemy turning breadcrumbs into banquets—the 3 a.m. dissection of a casual glance, the phantom vibrations of an unanswered text, the exquisite torment of rehearsing conversations that will never happen. To be limerent is to worship at the altar of absence.

noun

  1. An involuntary romantic infatuation with another person, especially combined with an overwhelming, obsessive need to have one's feelings reciprocated.“I first used the term ‘amorance’ then changed it back to ‘limerence’ […]. It has no roots whatsoever. It looks nice. It works well in French. Take it from me it has no etymology whatsoever.”