escapism

noun

es·​cap·​ism i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
Synonyms of escapismnext
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
The movie is pure escapism.
escapist adjective or noun

Examples of escapism in a Sentence

Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the escapism of the tabloids is something that is, in a way, very soothing for people. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026 Some of us were inspired as kids to pursue science by such tales; others have used epic extraterrestrial series as escapism from our regular lives. Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 12 June 2026 And [‘Nomadland’] is a slow-moving thing about grief, and there’s no escapism to it. Arushi Jacob, Variety, 11 June 2026 Travelers who choose a skillcation are explicitly opting out of pure escapism in favor of something more demanding. Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for escapism

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of escapism was in 1933

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
escapist adjective or noun

Medical Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist adjective or noun

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