idealism
noun
ide·al·ism
ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm 
ˈī-(ˌ)dē-
1
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
Too Big to Care does not rely on idealism or frameworks.
—
John Hall, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
The messenger planet will also join forces with Neptune on April 17, adding a layer of idealism and compassion to your day-to-day life.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
For all its idealism and command of several languages, Kraftwerk recognized Atomic Age inventions had their own negatives.
—Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2025
Back to the Dems Meanwhile, Democrats continued to flop and flounder like so many trout pulled from the stream of progressive idealism and flung onto the rocks.
—Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for idealism
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John Hall, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
The messenger planet will also join forces with Neptune on April 17, adding a layer of idealism and compassion to your day-to-day life.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
For all its idealism and command of several languages, Kraftwerk recognized Atomic Age inventions had their own negatives.
—Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2025
Back to the Dems Meanwhile, Democrats continued to flop and flounder like so many trout pulled from the stream of progressive idealism and flung onto the rocks.
—Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for idealism
Cite this Entry
“Idealism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idealism. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
idealism
noun
ide·al·ism
ī-ˈdē-(ə-)ˌliz-əm
ˈī-(ˌ)dē-
: the practice of forming ideals or living under their influence
idealist
noun
-(ə-)ləst
idealistic
adjective
(ˌ)ī-ˌdē-(ə-)ˈlis-tik
ˌī-dē-
idealistically
adverb
-ti-k(ə-)lē
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