# fad

/ˈfæd/ (US) · /fˈæd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fad
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

something that is very popular for a short time and then quickly forgotten. It is often a style, activity, or interest that people follow with great excitement.

For teachers: an intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially one that is short-lived and without basis in the object's intrinsic value.

## Examples

- That new dance style is just a passing fad.
- Many people thought that social media would be a temporary fad, but it has completely changed how we communicate.
- The history of fashion is littered with fads that seemed essential at the time but now appear bizarre or even comical to modern observers.

## Usage notes

- Often modified by adjectives like 'passing', 'latest', or 'short-lived'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.