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

Mixing political memory with collective portraiture, the Basque-language film explores post-Franco youthful idealism. —Callum McLennan, Variety, 22 Sep. 2025

Many Jews from Europe and the Middle East moved to the new state out of idealism or desperation. —Ian Buruma, New Yorker, 22 Sep. 2025

Then Dave Foley smoothed over the fight with perfect Canadian politesse, saying Black’s idealism was adorable in 2025. —Bethy Squires, Vulture, 12 Sep. 2025

Washington’s address lacks Jefferson’s idealism about equality and inalienable rights. —Robert A. Strong, The Conversation, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for idealism

• surrealism
• neorealism

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