fad
/fæd/
NOUN
1. A temporarily popular fashion or activity
A style, activity, interest, or practice that becomes popular among a group of people for a relatively short period, often attracting widespread enthusiasm before losing popularity.
1.1. Temporary popular trends
Refers to a fashion, style, or cultural trend that suddenly becomes widely popular but usually does not remain fashionable for long.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- tradition
- classic
- permanence
Examples
- Wearing brightly colored rubber bracelets became a fad among teenagers.
- The latest fashion fad disappeared almost as quickly as it had appeared.
Related Words
- popularity
- novelty
- faddishness
- cultural trend
- fashion cycle
1.2. Short-lived popular enthusiasm
Refers to a temporary wave of widespread interest or enthusiasm for a particular activity, hobby, product, or idea.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- indifference
- apathy
- disinterest
Examples
- The sudden fad for collectible toys attracted buyers from around the country.
- The fitness fad gained millions of followers before public interest declined.
Related Words
- enthusiasm
- fascination
- excitement
- infatuation
- popular interest
1.3. Temporary popular habits and practices
Refers to a practice, behavior, or lifestyle choice that many people adopt enthusiastically for a limited time, often because it is fashionable or widely promoted.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- Fad diets often promise quick results but may lack scientific support.
- The fad of waking up at five in the morning became popular among productivity enthusiasts.
Related Words
NOUN
2. A personal whim or eccentric preference
A personal inclination, unusual preference, or passing fancy that someone follows without a lasting or substantial reason.
2.1. Passing personal fancies
Refers to an individual's temporary preference, whim, or unusual interest that may change or disappear over time.
Synonyms
Examples
- His latest fad was collecting unusual antique clocks.
- She dismissed his interest in elaborate costumes as another passing fad.