idea

idea

noun

Definition of IDEA

1

something imagined or pictured in the mind <my idea of the perfect vacation spot is an uncrowded, unspoiled beach>

Synonyms abstraction, cogitation, concept, conception, image, impression, intellection, mind's eye, notion, picture, thought

Related Words apprehension, premonition, presentiment; preconception, prejudice, prepossession; chimera, delusion, hallucination, illusion, phantasm (also fantasm); caprice, conceit, fancy, freak, kink, vagary, whim; cognition, observation, perception, reflection; assumption, belief, conclusion, conviction; conjecture, guess, hunch, hypothesis, speculation, supposition, surmise, theory; brainchild, brainstorm, brain wave, inspiration

Near Antonyms actuality, fact, reality

2

someone of such unequaled perfection as to deserve imitation <Helen Keller remains my idea of a person with indomitable spirit>

Synonyms beau ideal, classic, eidolon, exemplar, idea, model, nonesuch, nonpareil, paragon, patron saint

Related Words role model; embodiment, epitome, incarnation, manifestation, personification, phantom, pink; archetype, example, mirror, paradigm, pattern; guideline, principle, rule; gauge (also gage), standard, touchstone; essence, quintessence; acme, apex, apotheosis, culmination, peak, pinnacle, summit, zenith

3

something that one hopes or intends to accomplish <the idea is to get the information without seeming to be nosy>

Synonyms aim, ambition, aspiration, bourne (also bourn), design, dream, end, idea, ideal, intent, intention, mark, meaning, object, objective, plan, point, pretension, purpose, target, thing

Related Words grail, holy grail; plot, project, scheme; desire, hope, mind, wish; nirvana; destination, terminus

Near Antonyms means, method, way