idealism

Pronunciation: /ʌɪˈdɪəlɪz(ə)m/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun (philosophy) the philosophical theory that ideas are the only reality
  2. noun impracticality by virtue of thinking of things in their ideal form rather than as they really are
  3. noun elevated ideals or conduct; the quality of believing that ideals should be pursued

Etymology

First attested 1796, from ideal + -ism.

In classic literature

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
philosophical doctrine

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