escapism

noun

es·​cap·​ism i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist adjective or noun

Examples of escapism in a Sentence

Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
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.
Don’t fall into the trap of escapism — facing these truths head-on will set you free. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 28 Jan. 2025 According to a Statista 2023 survey, 40% of workers in the UK have resumed full-time office attendance or hybrid work, and many are rediscovering the convenience and escapism of books during their journeys. Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 The finding that open-world games may enhance people’s well-being through enhanced escapism and relaxation is not trivial, given the growing evidence that other forms of entertainment, such as traditional social media, contribute to adolescent anxiety and depression. New Atlas, 19 Dec. 2024 With Trump in office, the ever-reactive entertainment business will internalize some of the culture’s rightward shift, mostly by focusing on producing nonpartisan escapism. Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for escapism 

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of escapism was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near escapism

Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
escapist adjective or noun

Medical Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist adjective or noun

More from Merriam-Webster on escapism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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