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.

escapist

i-ˈskā-pist 

adjective or noun

Examples of escapism in a Sentence

Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.

Recent Examples on the Web

The campaign evokes the allure and the luxury of escapism through its modern glamour aesthetic and timelessness. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 21 Nov. 2025

As Johnson explains, Christmas 2025 is all about whimsical decor that not only provides a visually appealing presentation but also adds a festive element of escapism. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Nov. 2025

For two and a half hours, the cast and crew made magic on that stage, offering a welcome dose of escapism into a much less complicated time. —Ross Raihala, Twin Cities, 27 Oct. 2025

But His Dark Materials offers much more than mere escapism. —Literary Hub, 17 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for escapism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism

Kids 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

escapist

-pəst 

adjective or noun

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

escapist

-pəst 

adjective or noun