IDEALIZATION Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

idealization

noun

Definition of idealization

as in romanticization

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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 idealization Neptune, on the other hand, is the planet of dreams, illusions, spirituality, idealization, confusion and surrender. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 3 June 2026 Whether that’s true or just an idealization is beside the point; such stories serve as an enormous source of pride and identity. — IEEE Spectrum, 7 May 2026 The student had an extensive social media presence that showed an idealization of other school shooters and an affinity for antisemitic and Nazi ideologies. — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 16 Mar. 2026 Officials censored, revised, and rewrote theater repertoire to remove any idealization of the pre-revolutionary past and add content that glorified Soviet rule. — Yegor Mostovshikov, The Dial, 9 Sep. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for idealization

Noun

It is characterized by a romanticization of traditional elite academia, references to classic literature, and a mysterious atmosphere.

— Sophia Zhang, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 July 2026
The romanticization of the uncorrupted mother continent took over.

— Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 25 Apr. 2026

Definition of romanticization

Noun

In Pattinson’s case, his latest entries in the internet hall of fame also reflect how his online status has changed across his career, from a position of mockery to the widespread adoration on display today in numerous viral fan edits.

— David Mack, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
His death sparked an outpouring of adoration from his Sopranos’ castmates, among others.

— Julian Roberts-Grmela, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of adoration

Noun

Declinism, on the other hand, is an unrealistic glorification of the past coupled with the belief that things are steadily going downhill.

— Markham Heid, Time, 8 July 2026
Right-wing incidents included conspiracy theories, glorification of the Nazi regime, and calls for a repeat of the Holocaust.

— Toby Axelrod, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026

Definition of glorification

Noun

These include excessive exercise, perfectionism, rule following, deference to coaches, high achievement and obsessive-compulsive traits.

— Erin Harrop, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2026
The president, himself a billionaire, has described his inclination toward appointing the ultrawealthy as deference to financial success.

— ABC News, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of deference

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idealists

idealization

idealizations

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“Idealization.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/idealization. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of idealization

noun

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