will-o'-the-wisp

Definition of will-o'-the-wispnext

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 will-o'-the-wisp As the guitar-strumming will-o'-the-wisp Maria von Trapp, Julie Andrews taught us a few of her favorite things. Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for will-o'-the-wisp
Noun
  • Only this second chance runs through youth reformatories and eventually the California State Prison – outside life is but a pipe dream.
    Zach Dennis, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2026
  • But that seems to be a bit of a pipe dream.
    Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 15 May 2026
Noun
  • The Reckoning None of this means AI is a mirage.
    Craig S. Smith, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026
  • That plan was a mirage, friends.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 10 May 2026
Noun
  • Unveiling ignis fatuus: Microlightning between microbubbles.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Several sources say ignis fatuus, a spark of swamp gas, is the likely cause of the strange light.
    Fox News, Fox News, 3 Mar. 2023
Noun
  • Nina, Karen and Caroline started appearing in my daydreams, full of vigor and life lessons.
    Jennifer Acker, PEOPLE, 8 May 2026
  • Some stories plant deep in your creative brain and come out through songs heard on the radio and random daydreams in the shower.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 7 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Will-o'-the-wisp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/will-o%27-the-wisp. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

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