escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm 
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
The movie is pure escapism.
Examples of escapism in a Sentence
Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Enter Twinpalms Bangtao Phuket Tented Resort, the hideaway designed for those yearning for escapism.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
Lest film noir be seen as purely the stuff of escapism, the hosts note that many of these music-centric films deal with issues of race and/or personal economics.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 24 Mar. 2026
Most keep calm and create a compelling-enough distraction as if fulfilling marching orders, their escapism a duty.
—Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 10 Mar. 2026
But beyond providing an indulgent, meta retrospective on the historical impact that the early 90s hit series had on Finland, Soap Fever also examines the circumstances in which the yearning for escapism reaches a breaking point, especially when everything seems bleak.
—Matthew Carey, Deadline, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for escapism
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
Lest film noir be seen as purely the stuff of escapism, the hosts note that many of these music-centric films deal with issues of race and/or personal economics.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 24 Mar. 2026
Most keep calm and create a compelling-enough distraction as if fulfilling marching orders, their escapism a duty.
—Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 10 Mar. 2026
But beyond providing an indulgent, meta retrospective on the historical impact that the early 90s hit series had on Finland, Soap Fever also examines the circumstances in which the yearning for escapism reaches a breaking point, especially when everything seems bleak.
—Matthew Carey, Deadline, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for escapism
Cite this Entry
“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
Medical Definition
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
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