Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Figment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽจ
Add to dictionary

figment

[หˆfษชษกmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

imagination

A figment is something that is created or imagined, rather than something that is real. It is often used to refer to something that exists only in someone's mind.

Synonyms

fabrication, fantasy, illusion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
figment

Refers to something that is invented or imagined, typically something that is not real.

  • The monster under the bed was just a figment of the child's imagination.
  • The story of the haunted house turned out to be a figment of someone's creativity.
fabrication

Implies something that is made up or false, often with the intention to deceive.

  • The journalist was criticized for publishing a complete fabrication.
  • He presented a story that was a complete fabrication to avoid getting into trouble.
fantasy

Denotes something that is imagined or dreamed up, often involving elements that are highly unrealistic or fanciful.

  • She spent her afternoons lost in a fantasy world of dragons and wizards.
  • Winning the lottery was just a fantasy he liked to think about.
illusion

Refers to a false perception or belief, often something that deceives the mind or senses.

  • The magician's trick created an illusion that left the audience in awe.
  • His sense of control was merely an illusion; in reality, things were falling apart.

Examples of usage

  • He dismissed the threat as a figment of his imagination.
  • The monster under the bed was just a figment of the child's mind.
  • Her fears turned out to be nothing more than a figment of her imagination.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

In literature, a figment can refer to a fictional character or element created by the author.

Synonyms

creation, fiction, invention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
figment

Use this word when referring to something that exists only in someone's imagination and has no basis in reality.

  • The monster under the bed was just a figment of the child's imagination
  • She realized his stories were mere figments of his mind
creation

This word is best used when referring to something that has been brought into existence, usually emphasizing the act of making or bringing forth something new.

  • The artist proudly displayed her latest creation at the gallery
  • His creation of the new app took several months of hard work
invention

This word is used when talking about a novel device, method, or process that has been created through human ingenuity. Often refers to technological or mechanical advancements.

  • The invention of the telephone revolutionized communication
  • His latest invention could change the way we approach renewable energy
fiction

Best suited for describing literature, stories, or narratives that are made up and not factual. It often refers to books, movies, or stories.

  • She loves reading science fiction novels
  • The character's adventures were pure fiction, though they felt very real

Examples of usage

  • The author's vivid descriptions brought the figments of his imagination to life.
  • The novel was filled with fantastical figments that captured the readers' imagination.
Context #3 | Noun

art

In art, a figment can be a representation of something imaginary or unreal, often used to convey a deeper meaning or emotion.

Synonyms

creation, depiction, representation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
figment

This word is commonly used to describe something that is imagined and not real. It often has a negative or skeptical connotation.

  • The monster under the bed is just a figment of your imagination.
  • He dismissed the rumors as pure figments of the media.
depiction

This term is used when describing the portrayal of something, often in the context of art, literature, or media, to convey a specific image or story.

  • The film provides a realistic depiction of life in the 19th century.
  • The book's depiction of the protagonist's journey is incredibly vivid.
representation

This word is suited for situations where something serves as a symbol or stands in for something else, often in a formal or abstract context.

  • The statue is a representation of the country's freedom.
  • In mathematics, a graph is a representation of data.
creation

Use this word when referring to something that has been intentionally brought into existence, especially if it involves creativity or innovation.

  • The artist's latest creation is a stunning sculpture.
  • This technology is a new creation that can change the industry.

Examples of usage

  • The painting was a figment of the artist's imagination, depicting a surreal dreamscape.
  • The sculpture was a figment of the sculptor's creativity, blending reality and fantasy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, figments are often associated with dreams or hallucinations, reminding us that perception can differ from reality.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy sometimes addresses figments, helping individuals distinguish between real thoughts and imagined fears.
  • Imagination is a powerful tool in psychology, with figments used in exercises to boost creativity and problem-solving.

Literature

  • Figments appear often in fantasy literature, representing characters or worlds that challenge the boundary between reality and imagination.
  • Writers use figments to explore themes of delusion and creativity, often leading protagonists on transformative journeys.
  • Classic tales often include figments as illustrative devicesโ€”stories that teach us important lessons about life and reality.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, figments often manifest as characters in imaginative scenarios, like the whimsical creatures in 'Alice in Wonderland.'
  • Animated series frequently use figments to visualize characters' thoughts, such as the iconic 'inside out' emotions in the film of the same name.
  • Figments have inspired several video games that lead players through imaginative worlds, turning dreams into interactive adventures.

Origin of 'figment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'fingere,' which means 'to shape or form,' showing its connection to imagination.
  • It entered the English language in the late 16th century, initially referring to something invented in the mind.
  • The prefix 'fig-' hints at creating or shaping, while 'ment' indicates a state of being.

The word 'figment' originated from the Latin word 'figmentum', which means 'something fashioned or invented'. It first appeared in Middle English in the 15th century. Over time, 'figment' has come to be associated with the realm of imagination, creativity, and fiction, embodying the concept of something created or imagined rather than real.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,638, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.