Micromania is a term used to describe an extreme interest or obsession with small things. The word is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˌmaɪkroʊˈmeɪniə/, with emphasis on the second syllable 'kroh'. It includes the prefix "micro," meaning small, and the suffix "-mania," indicating a state of obsession or excessive enthusiasm. Micromania is often used casually to refer to a fondness for miniature objects or details, but can also describe a more serious condition characterized by compulsive behavior towards small objects.
Micromania is a noun that refers to an excessive preoccupation or obsession with small or minute details. It is derived from the combination of the prefix 'micro-' meaning small or minute, and the suffix '-mania' indicating an excessive enthusiasm or obsession. Micromania can manifest in various domains, such as work, hobbies, or personal life, where individuals may excessively focus on insignificant or trivial aspects, often neglecting the bigger picture.
In some cases, micromania can derive from a perfectionist mindset, where individuals have an unrelenting desire for precision and accuracy. This can lead to spending an excessive amount of time and effort on minor details, which may hinder productivity and overall effectiveness. Micromania can also result in an obsessive need for control, as individuals may feel compelled to regulate every aspect of a task or situation, potentially impeding progress or collaboration.
While attention to detail and precision are important in many areas of life, micromania represents an extreme manifestation of these traits. It can have detrimental effects on personal relationships, time management, and general well-being. Recognizing and balancing the importance of the broader context and prioritizing tasks based on relative significance can help mitigate micromania tendencies.
A delusion of self-depreciation, or that one's own body is of minute size.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "micromania" is derived from two Greek roots: "micros" meaning small, and "mania" meaning madness.
The word "micros" comes from the Greek word "mikros" (μικρός), which means small or little. This root is commonly used in scientific terminology to denote something that is small in size or scale.
The word "mania" also comes from Greek, stemming from the word "mainomai" (μαίνομαι), which means to rave, rage, or be mad. It is often used to describe an intense or excessive enthusiasm or obsession for something.
When combined, "micros" and "mania" form the word "micromania", which refers to an excessive or obsessive interest in small things or details. It is commonly used to describe a fascination or preoccupation with miniatures, precision, or intricate details.