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
Exasperated by his country’s divisive struggles to establish the rule of law and resist the temptations of strongman leadership, the lawyer displays a portrait of Vaclav Havel, an icon of democratic idealism, on the wall of his country house in western Slovakia.
—
Andrew Higgins, New York Times, 19 May 2024
The work has a countertenor, who stands for the adult world, more or less, and a children’s chorus, which stands for idealism and righteousness.
—Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 17 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for idealism 
Andrew Higgins, New York Times, 19 May 2024
The work has a countertenor, who stands for the adult world, more or less, and a children’s chorus, which stands for idealism and righteousness.
—Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 17 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for idealism
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'idealism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Idealism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idealism. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
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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