Entry Word: abstract

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 dealing with or expressing a quality or idea <the book deals with abstract matters such as honesty and integrity on the job as well as practical subjects such as asking for a raise>

Synonyms conceptual, theoretical (also theoretic)

Related Words conjectural, hypothetical, speculative; intellectual, mental, spiritual; ethereal, immaterial, incorporeal, insubstantial, metaphysical, nonmaterial, nonphysical, unsubstantial; impalpable, imperceptible, insensible, intangible, invisible; impractical, romantic, transcendent, transcendental, unreal, utopian, visionary

Near Antonyms material, physical; appreciable, detectable, discernable, noticeable, observable, palpable, perceptible, sensible, substantial, tangible, visible; defined, definite, distinct; actual, factual, real

Antonyms concrete

2 using elements of form (as color, line, or texture) with little or no attempt at creating a realistic picture <Cubism is a style of abstract art in which natural forms are broken up into geometric shapes>

Synonyms nonrealistic

Related Words impressionist, impressionistic; symbolist, symbolistic

Near Antonyms lifelike, natural

Antonyms realistic, representational