Monday word: cathexis

[ersatz-read.livejournal.com]

cathexis (kə-thĕk′sĭs), noun
Concentration of emotional energy on a concept, object, or idea.

Etymology: Greek kathexis, holding, retention (as in occupying and holdimg a city, I think)

This is a term from psychoanalysis, used by Freud and referring to an instinctual or emotional concentration of energy or thought.
Examples are patriotism, an emotional attachment to a family keepsake, etc.