realism

noun

re·​al·​ism ˈrē-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: concern for fact or reality and rejection of the impractical and visionary

2

a

: a doctrine that universals exist outside the mind

specifically : the conception that an abstract term names an independent and unitary reality

b

: a theory that objects of sense perception or cognition exist independently of the mind compare nominalism

3

: the theory or practice of fidelity in art and literature to nature or to real life and to accurate representation without idealization

Synonyms of realism

• naturalism
• verisimilitude

Examples of realism in a Sentence

He has a sense of realism about what can be done to improve the economy.

The realism of her dream was alarming.

the stark realism of the play

Recent Examples on the Web

Incorporating magical realism into the comedic and, at times, poignant overtones can be a tricky feat, but Devantez and company do it with great craft and care. —Courtney Howard, Variety, 17 Mar. 2026

Tuason didn’t just want to use that power for realism, but for demonic evil. —Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 14 Mar. 2026

The filmmaker, known for marrying smart social commentary with weirdly believable magical realism, appears to be doubling down on what’s working for him. —Mikey O'Connell, HollywoodReporter, 13 Mar. 2026

Yu Ji’s work moves from China’s post-Soviet academic legacy toward a humanistic concern rooted in realism. —Li Qi, Artforum, 6 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing realism

• anti-realism
• magical realism
• magic realism
• photo-realism
• socialist realism

Kids Definition

realism

noun

re·​al·​ism ˈrē-ə-ˌliz-əm 

ˈri-ə-

1

: willingness to face facts and to give in to what is necessary

2

: the showing of things as they really are in art, literature, and theater

realist

-ləst 

adjective or noun