romanticism

noun

ro·​man·​ti·​cism rō-ˈman-tə-ˌsi-zəm 

rə-

1

often capitalized

a(1)

: a literary, artistic, and philosophical movement originating in the 18th century, characterized chiefly by a reaction against neoclassicism and an emphasis on the imagination and emotions, and marked especially in English literature by sensibility and the use of autobiographical material, an exaltation of the primitive and the common man, an appreciation of external nature, an interest in the remote, a predilection for melancholy, and the use in poetry of older verse forms

(2)

: an aspect of romanticism

b

: adherence to a romantic attitude or style

2

: the quality or state of being romantic

romanticist

rō-ˈman-tə-sist 

rə-

noun often capitalized

Examples of romanticism in a Sentence

Try not to discourage the romanticism of college students.

Recent Examples on the Web

More than a decade into the franchise, the sweeping romanticism of author Diana Gabaldon’s story is matched only by a constantly evolving definition of trauma, leaving each character –– and the audience –– to brace for the brutality of life and whatever fresh hell awaits them around every corner. —Hunter Ingram, Variety, 6 Sep. 2025

Of course, romanticism has never been Denis’ thing, and from the moment Leonie touches down at a tiny airstrip, the reality of where she’s landed becomes apparent. —Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025

An era brimming with open-hearted romanticism and unabashed honesty, Dunn-Edwards’ Cabaret is the perfect paint color for anyone looking to connect with their feminine side and conjure an enchanting space that also feels empowering. —Emily Williams, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Aug. 2025

For his Spring-Summer 1992 show in London, John Galliano honed in on the romanticism and sensuality of 19th-century slips typically worn in the French court. —Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 29 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1821, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing romanticism

• pre-romanticism

Rhymes for romanticism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism

Kids Definition

romanticism

noun

ro·​man·​ti·​cism rō-ˈmant-ə-ˌsiz-əm 

1

often capitalized : a literary and artistic movement marked chiefly by an emphasis on the imagination and emotions

2

: the quality or state of being romantic

romanticist

-səst 

noun often capitalized