fetishism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a belief in the magical power of fetishes (or the worship of a fetish)
    fetichism.
  2. noun sexual arousal or gratification resulting from handling a fetish (or a specific part of the body other than the sexual organs)
    fetichism.

WordNet

fe"tich*ism, Fe"tish*ism noun (Also<
  • fetichism
  • Fetishism
)
Etymology
Cf. F. fétichisme.
Definitions
  1. The doctrine or practice of belief in fetiches.
  2. Excessive devotion to one object or one idea; abject superstition; blind adoration.
    The real and absolute worship of fire falls into two great divisions, the first belonging rather to fetichism, the second to polytheism proper. Tylor.

Webster 1913