-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
Examples of escapism in a Sentence
Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
Recent Examples on the Web
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
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.
Word History
First Known Use
1933, in the meaning defined above
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
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
Medical Definition
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
More from Merriam-Webster on escapism
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for escapism
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share