escapism

noun

Definition of escapismnext
as in entertainment
an activity that allows people to forget about the real problems of life The movie is pure escapism. Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of escapism These books show the ways Black children use imagination as more than a form of escapism or fanciful thinking. — Brooke Harris Garad, The Conversation, 14 July 2026 At Dior, the set was a leafy hothouse, also evoking escapism. — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 10 July 2026 This Robinson Crusoe-esque idyll delivers so much more than the standard palm tree escapism, with a 39-room wellness complex that's a match for anywhere in Europe or Asia. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026 Lectra said sequins are up 40 percent and fringe 34 percent this spring and summer season—a signal that consumers crave escapism and individuality. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for escapism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for escapism
  1. entertainment
  2. amusement
  3. enjoyment
  4. relaxation
Noun
  • This starts with maintenance and includes brand-new interiors — everything from seats to sidewalls and inflight entertainment — to keep fliers happy.
    — Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026
  • His Marina del Rey company LaTerra Development recently completed a 575-unit complex along the 5 Freeway near the Burbank MetroLink station that caters to tenants in the entertainment industry.
    — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of entertainment
Noun
  • In a television ad for Dunkin’, Kylie Jenner wore a blush-pink, satin, structured blazer with over-the-top shoulder pads, a designer choice that generated some amusement online from those previously unfamiliar with the brand’s name.
    — Beatrice Dupuy, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The press noted with amusement the plight of the court reporter who threw his hands in the air in frustration after trying to transcribe scatting.
    — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 4 Aug. 2026
Definition of amusement
Noun
  • Indeed, some might suggest that asset protection planning is the science or art of separating clients from their assets while still allowing those clients the beneficial use and enjoyment of those assets.
    — Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The lawsuit requests damages of $10 million for past and future physical injuries, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
    — Madison Lambert, NBC news, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of enjoyment
Noun
  • The plush bed and hot shower are John’s first real taste of relaxation in two years.
    — Sabrina Reed, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Were my tears simply the cumulative effect of relaxation, beauty, and time in unusually close quarters with strangers encouraged to be vulnerable?
    — Charley Ward, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of relaxation

Browse Nearby Words

escaping
escapism
escapisms
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Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/escapism. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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