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
And its yearning idealism is a good antidote to the current prevailing cynicism.
—
ArsTechnica, 2 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
The bedrock of net zero policy rests economic pragmatism, not idealism.
—David Carlin, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025
Neptune will eventually enter this area of your chart, adding a sense of idealism and receptivity to your professional life.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for idealism
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ArsTechnica, 2 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
The bedrock of net zero policy rests economic pragmatism, not idealism.
—David Carlin, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025
Neptune will eventually enter this area of your chart, adding a sense of idealism and receptivity to your professional life.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 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 21 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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