: 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
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebOf course, war is rarely as straightforward as the deeply felt idealism that drives people to enlist.New York Times, 5 Mar. 2022 No one can doubt the idealism behind these various efforts. Margaret Sullivan, Washington Post, 30 Nov. 2021 Aquariuses are known for their vision, idealism, and individuality. Emily Newhouse, Allure, 11 Aug. 2022 The Hollywood Bowl represents L.A. in all its naked splendor, idealism, commercialism, diversity, communal aspirations toward equality, social division, tackiness and even sordidness. Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2022 Nichols expertly tells how the others were picked off by storms, wrecks, illness, loneliness, fatigue, idealism (oddly enough), and, in one case, the impossible, madness-inducing burden of deception. The Week Staff, The Week, 4 Apr. 2022 With his blend of idealism, practicality, and superb fashion, Dickens wowed us all. Tayari Jones, Travel + Leisure, 26 Mar. 2022 In that bruising character study pitting self-delusion against political idealism, Hurt and Raúl Juliá played reluctant cellmates in a Brazilian prison, the former a gay fantasist, the latter a hardline leftist revolutionary. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2022 Yes, the show broke television ground with its portrayal of a Chinese family balancing identity, idealism, and the idiocy of everyday life in America. Ew Staff, EW.com, 14 Feb. 2022 See More