anaclitic

English

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἀνάκλιτος (“for reclining”), from ἀνακλίνω. Originally in the phrase anaclitic type, translating Freud's term Anlehnungstypus.

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ænəˈklɪtɪk/

Adjective

anaclitic (not comparable)

1. (psychoanalysis) Denoting a person whose choice of love-interest arises from the dependence of the libido on another instinct (e.g. hunger).

   • 1982: I don’t think I have to gloss the true anaclitic purport behind your need to humiliate a woman doctor symbolically. (Fowles, Mantissa)

2. Pertaining to an acute emotional dependence on another person or persons.