idealism

noun

ide·​al·​ism ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm How to pronounce idealism (audio)
ˈī-(ˌ)dē-
1
a
: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence
b
: something that is idealized
2
a(1)
: a theory that ultimate reality lies in a realm transcending phenomena
(2)
: a theory that the essential nature of reality lies in consciousness or reason
b(1)
: a theory that only the perceptible is real
(2)
: a theory that only mental states or entities are knowable
3
: literary or artistic theory or practice that affirms the preeminent value of imagination as compared with faithful copying of nature compare realism

Examples of idealism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Heiss felt toward the relationship between them a kind of atavistic idealism, which connected the experience to relationships between the Greek erastes and eromenos. Lillian Fishman, New Yorker, 4 May 2025 Through deeply human storytelling, the series transcends its historical setting to explore universal themes of violence, trauma, idealism, and the moral ambiguities of political conflict. Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 1 May 2025 For Waters, who regularly works with and rescues animals, idealism keeps him motivated to continue his work. Morgan Severson, CNN Money, 25 Apr. 2025 The path forward requires Democrats to balance idealism with realism. Nafees Alam, Twin Cities, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for idealism

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1743, in the meaning defined at sense 2a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of idealism was circa 1743

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Idealism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idealism. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

idealism

noun
ide·​al·​ism ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm How to pronounce idealism (audio)
ˈī-(ˌ)dē-
: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence
idealist
-(ə-)ləst
noun
idealistic
(ˌ)ī-ˌdē-(ə-)ˈlis-tik
ˌī-dē-
adjective
idealistically
-ti-k(ə-)lē
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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