idealism

noun

ide·​al·​ism ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm 

ˈī-(ˌ)dē-

1

a

: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence

b

: something that is idealized

2

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

3

: literary or artistic theory or practice that affirms the preeminent value of imagination as compared with faithful copying of nature compare realism

Examples of idealism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s Goudreau, whose stated idealism undeniably was only part of why he got involved with these various figures’ plot to send a platoon of dissidents into Caracas to topple the government — the fact he was offered over $200 million for the mission was certainly a huge part of it. —Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 6 Sep. 2024

Scorpio October 23 – November 21 Thoughtfully researching some topic that stimulates your idealism could be especially rewarding today. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2024

But as the plot unspools, questions of control and coercion, reality and idealism, are layered on top of Kushner’s enveloping noir. —Chloe Schama, Vogue, 18 July 2024

All blue jeans and Chevy trucks, lake-side dancing and unrequited high-school crushes; sang with a country twang and the idealism of a hopeless romantic. —Esther Newman, refinery29.com, 18 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1743, in the meaning defined at sense 2a(1)

Kids Definition

idealism

noun

ide·​al·​ism ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm 

ˈī-(ˌ)dē-

: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence

idealist

-(ə-)ləst

noun

idealistic

(ˌ)ī-ˌdē-(ə-)ˈlis-tik

ˌī-dē-

adjective

idealistically

-ti-k(ə-)lē

adverb