Idealist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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idealist
[aษชหdษชษlษชst ]
Definition
person
A person who cherishes or pursues high or noble principles, purposes, goals, etc.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| idealist |
Used for someone with a high moral or ethical view of the world, aiming for perfection.
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| dreamer |
Refers to someone who has impractical or unrealistic plans or goals.
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| optimist |
Describes someone who looks at the positive side of situations and expects good outcomes.
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| romantic |
Used for someone who is sentimental, idealizes love, or has a flair for the dramatic in matters of the heart.
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Examples of usage
- He was an idealist who believed in the power of love to change the world.
- She is an idealist who always sees the best in people.
- Many great leaders throughout history have been idealists.
- Despite facing many challenges, the idealist remained optimistic.
- The idealist's vision inspired others to strive for a better future.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Idealism contrasts with realism, which focuses on the practical world rather than ideals.
- Figures like Immanuel Kant shaped modern idealism, proposing that our understanding of the world is shaped by our perceptions.
- Berkley argued that physical objects only exist because they are perceived, highlighting a key aspect of idealistic thought.
Pop Culture
- Characters like Don Quixote embody idealism as they pursue lofty dreams despite often facing harsh realities.
- Many movies feature an 'idealist' character who believes in bettering society, like Captain America in Marvel films.
- The phrase 'idealistic vision' is popular in music lyrics and literature, often depicting dreams of a better world.
Psychology
- People identified as idealists may experience higher levels of motivation but also face disappointments when reality diverges from their dreams.
- Research shows that idealism can correlate with traits like creativity and empathy, making idealists often rethink conventional solutions.
- Idealists are typically more likely to advocate for social change, driven by strong beliefs in justice and fairness.
Literature
- Classic novels often explore the tension between idealism and realism, such as in works by Jane Austen, where characters seek perfect relationships.
- The broad theme of idealism versus cynicism is prevalent in postmodern literature, questioning the feasibility of pursuing lofty dreams.
- Poets like John Keats expressed idealism in their works, portraying beauty and truth as aspirational goals.
Origin of 'idealist'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'idealist' comes from the Greek word 'idea', meaning a thought or concept.
- In philosophy, idealism began with Plato, who believed true reality is found in ideas rather than the physical world.
- The word gained popularity in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, associated with movements that prioritized human thought and ideals.
The term 'idealist' originated in the late 18th century from the French word 'idรฉaliste', which was derived from the Latin 'ideal', meaning 'existing as an idea'. Idealists have often been associated with philosophical movements and social reforms, advocating for the pursuit of high ideals and principles. The concept of idealism continues to influence various aspects of society, inspiring individuals to strive for a better world.
See also: ideal, idealism, idealistic, idealization, idealize, idealizing, ideally, idealness.