Langimage
English

idealism

|i/de/al/ism|

C1

🇺🇸

/aɪˈdiːəˌlɪzəm/

🇬🇧

/aɪˈdɪəˌlɪzəm/

pursuit of ideals

Etymology
Etymology Information

'idealism' originates from the French word 'idéalisme', which is derived from the Latin word 'idea', meaning 'form' or 'pattern'.

Historical Evolution

'idéalisme' transformed into the English word 'idealism' during the 18th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'the pursuit of ideals', but over time it evolved to include philosophical meanings related to the nature of reality.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the practice of forming or pursuing ideals, especially unrealistically.

Her idealism often clashed with the harsh realities of life.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a philosophical theory which maintains that the ultimate nature of reality is based on the mind or ideas.

In philosophy, idealism suggests that reality is mentally constructed.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45