idealist

1 of 2

noun

ide·​al·​ist ī-ˈdē-(ə-)list 

ˈī-(ˌ)dē-

1

: one guided by ideals

especially : one that places ideals before practical considerations

a mix of idealists and realists

2

a

: an adherent of a philosophical theory of idealism

b

: an artist or author who advocates or practices idealism in art or writing

idealist

2 of 2

adjective

: idealistic

Synonyms of idealist

Noun

• dreamer

Adjective

• romantic
• idealistic
• impractical
• utopian

Examples of idealist in a Sentence

Noun

an idealist sees the best in everyone, regardless of how they behave

Adjective

an idealist attempt to make a go of a mom-and-pop hardware store on Main Street

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Jeffrey Epstein is mentioned, as is Jimmy Kimmel, whose interview with this fresh-faced idealist was not allowed to air on ABC's airwaves. — Philip Elliott, Time, 30 Sep. 2026

At its core, Dark Matter is a series about the folly and hubris of humankind, even when — nay, especially when — idealists have the power to achieve transformative change. — Scott Tobias, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026

Adjective

The novela also joins two of Brazil’s most popular actors as a majorly successful romantic pairing, with Colin’s Adriana falling in love with Chay Suede’s idealist lawyer Pedro. — Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

Sagittarius is an idealist sign that can totally relate to this tale of enduring relationships. — Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Adjective

1856, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for idealist

• surrealist