StephenCalder
2011-08-03 03:44:40 UTC
OED Online Word of the Day 3 August 2011
Your word for today is: limerence, n.
limerence, n.
Pronunciation: Brit. /ˈlɪm(ə)rəns/, U.S. /ˈlɪmər(ə)ns/, /ˈlɪmr(ə)ns/
Forms: 19- limerance, 19- limerence.
Etymology: < limer-, apparently an arbitrary element (compare quot.
1977) + -ence suffix. Compare limerent adj.
In form limerance after -ance suffix.
The state of being romantically infatuated or obsessed with another
person, typically experienced involuntarily and characterized by a
strong desire for reciprocation of one's feelings but not primarily for
a sexual relationship.
It has been suggested that this state results from fluctuations in the
levels of various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.
1977 D. Tennov in Observer 11 Sept. 3/9, 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.
1981 L. Lochhead Grimm Sisters 31 From limerance and venery She
flinched as at fire.
1993 C. Birch Regaining Compassion for Nature i. 23 Real love, as
distinct from limerence, does not destroy the freedom of the beloved.
It does not violate the beloved's individual and social existence.
2001 Weekend Austral. (Nexis) 10 Feb. 18 Limerance isn't about reality,
but a love state triggered by a rush of brain chemicals.
Your word for today is: limerence, n.
limerence, n.
Pronunciation: Brit. /ˈlɪm(ə)rəns/, U.S. /ˈlɪmər(ə)ns/, /ˈlɪmr(ə)ns/
Forms: 19- limerance, 19- limerence.
Etymology: < limer-, apparently an arbitrary element (compare quot.
1977) + -ence suffix. Compare limerent adj.
In form limerance after -ance suffix.
The state of being romantically infatuated or obsessed with another
person, typically experienced involuntarily and characterized by a
strong desire for reciprocation of one's feelings but not primarily for
a sexual relationship.
It has been suggested that this state results from fluctuations in the
levels of various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.
1977 D. Tennov in Observer 11 Sept. 3/9, 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.
1981 L. Lochhead Grimm Sisters 31 From limerance and venery She
flinched as at fire.
1993 C. Birch Regaining Compassion for Nature i. 23 Real love, as
distinct from limerence, does not destroy the freedom of the beloved.
It does not violate the beloved's individual and social existence.
2001 Weekend Austral. (Nexis) 10 Feb. 18 Limerance isn't about reality,
but a love state triggered by a rush of brain chemicals.
--
Stephen
Ballina, NSW
Stephen
Ballina, NSW