imagines; imagined; imagining
1
a
: to think of or create (something that is not real) in your mind
a writer who has imagined an entire world of amazing creatures
b
: to form a picture or idea in your mind of (something that is not real or present)
He asked us to imagine a world without poverty or war.
It's hard for me to imagine having children.
—often + thatImagine that you are relaxing on the beach.
—often + what, why, etc.It's hard to imagine what it would be like to be so wealthy.
I'm sure you can imagine how I felt.
I can't imagine why she would be so late. [=I do not understand why she is so late]
"Why is she so late?" "I can't imagine."
—sometimes used in phrases that express surpriseCan you imagine! A person like him being elected mayor! [=it is surprising or ridiculous to think of a person like him being elected mayor]
Just imagine what such a change would mean!
"This tree is more than 300 years old." "Imagine that!" [=isn't that remarkable]
2
: to have or form (an idea or opinion that is not accurate or based on reality)
She imagines that she is very charming. = She imagines herself to be very charming. [=she thinks that she is charming but actually she is not charming]
He was imagining all sorts of terrible things happening.
"What was that sound? I think there's someone in the house!" "Oh, you're just imagining things."
3
: to think or believe (something)
I imagine it will snow at some point today.
It's difficult to imagine that these changes will really be effective.
The company will do better next year, I imagine.
It was worse than they had imagined.
Cite this Entry
“Imagine.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/imagine. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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