Main Entry: ide·al·ism

Pronunciation: \ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm, ˈī-(ˌ)dē-\

Function: noun

Date: 1796

1 a (1) : a theory that ultimate reality lies in a realm transcending phenomena (2) : a theory that the essential nature of reality lies in consciousness or reason b (1) : a theory that only the perceptible is real (2) : a theory that only mental states or entities are knowable
2 a : the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence b : something that is idealized
3 : literary or artistic theory or practice that affirms the preeminent value of imagination as compared with faithful copying of nature — compare realism