Pronunciation: [biː smˈɪtən] (IPA) 
The phrase "be smitten" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription /bi ˈsmɪtən/. The word "smitten" is the past participle form of the verb "smite" which means to strike or hit forcefully. In this context, "be smitten" means to be deeply and suddenly enamored by someone or something. The spelling of "smitten" is derived from the Old English word "smitan" which means "to smite or hit".
To be smitten means to be deeply and strongly infatuated or enchanted with someone or something. This term is often used in the context of romantic feelings, but can also apply to a strong attraction or fascination towards an object, activity, or idea. It conveys an intense and overwhelming feeling of affection, captivation, or love.
When a person is smitten with another individual, they are consumed by a strong emotional connection and find themselves irresistibly attracted to that person. This affection goes beyond mere attraction and develops into an all-encompassing infatuation that dominates their thoughts and emotions. It often involves feelings of excitement, admiration, and a desire to be in the presence of the person who has captured their heart.
Being smitten is characterized by a variety of emotions such as giddiness, daydreaming, and a constant preoccupation with thoughts of the person or thing that has triggered these feelings. It can also result in a sense of vulnerability and a willingness to go to great lengths to impress or please the object of affection.
However, being smitten is not only restricted to romantic relationships. It can also describe a deep fascination or love towards an object, hobby, or idea, where the individual is entirely captivated and engrossed in their pursuit or experience.
Overall, "being smitten" conveys an overwhelming passion or fondness that goes beyond ordinary attraction or interest, resulting in a state of emotional enthrallment or enchantment.
The word "be smitten" is derived from the Old English word "smitan", which meant "to strike" or "to smite". In Old English, the prefix "be-" was added to verbs to intensify their meaning, giving "be smitten" the sense of being struck or affected strongly. Over time, the meaning of "be smitten" has evolved to signify being deeply infatuated or captivated by someone or something.
