idealism Meaning & Definition
/ʌɪˈdɪəlɪz(ə)m/
What Does Idealism Mean?
Idealism is used as a noun meaning The property of a person of having high ideals that are usually unrealizable or at odds with practical life. It is also used to mean The practice or habit of giving or attributing ideal form or character to things; treatment of things in art or literature according to ideal standards or patterns;—opposed to realism.
Word Facts for Idealism
| Part of speech | noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ʌɪˈdɪəlɪz(ə)m/ |
| Synonyms | high-mindedness, noble-mindedness and philosophical idealism |
| Antonyms | materialism |
| Plural | idealisms |
Idealism Definition (Noun)
- The property of a person of having high ideals that are usually unrealizable or at odds with practical life.
- The practice or habit of giving or attributing ideal form or character to things; treatment of things in art or literature according to ideal standards or patterns;—opposed to realism.
- An approach to philosophical enquiry, which asserts that direct and immediate knowledge can only be had of ideas or mental pictures.
Synonyms of Idealism
Idealism synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Idealism
Word Forms & Grammar
idealism (countable and uncountable, plural idealisms)
Words That Rhyme With Idealism
Origin of Idealism
First attested 1796, from ideal + -ism.
Frequently Asked Questions About Idealism
What part of speech is idealism?
Idealism is a noun.
What is another word for idealism?
Close synonyms of idealism are high-mindedness, noble-mindedness and philosophical idealism. See the full list of idealism synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of idealism?
The opposite of idealism is materialism.
What is the plural of idealism?
The plural of idealism is idealisms.