Idealized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• In psychology, idealization is a defense mechanism where a person overlooks flaws to maintain a positive view of someone or something.
• This can often lead to disappointment when the idealized version doesn’t match reality, which is known as disillusionment.
• Idealization can play a significant role in relationships, as it might initially enhance attraction but later create emotional conflict.

Art and Literature

• In art, idealized forms are often used to depict subjects like gods or heroes, emphasizing their beauty and perfection.
• Throughout literature, characters are often idealized to symbolize virtues, making them relatable or uplifting for readers.
• The concept of idealization is key in romanticism, where artists and writers depicted nature and human emotions in an exalted manner.

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures may idealize various traits, such as bravery in some societies or harmony in others, showcasing unique values.
• Media often presents idealized images of beauty, success, and relationships, which can influence societal standards.
• In many traditional fairy tales, characters are depicted in an idealized light, reinforcing the morals or lessons of the story.

Philosophy

• Philosophers like Plato discussed ideal forms as the ultimate reality, influencing how we think about perfection.
• The contrast between idealized and realistic views is a common theme in philosophical discussions about existence and perception.
• Idealism, a philosophical stance, suggests that reality is mentally constructed or otherwise immaterial, emphasizing the role of ideas.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from 'ideal', which has roots in the Greek word 'idea', meaning a concept or model.
• The suffix '-ized' is used in English to indicate a transformation into a certain state or form.
• The first recorded use of 'idealized' in English dates back to the late 19th century, highlighting the adaptation of ideas from different cultures.

The term 'idealized' originates from the word 'ideal', which comes from the Greek word 'idea', meaning 'form' or 'pattern'. The process of idealization began to take root in philosophical discourses, especially in the context of Plato’s theory of Forms, where the ideal was perceived as more real than the physical world. As society evolved, 'idealized' took on various connotations in literature and art, often associated with romanticism in the 18th and 19th centuries. In this era, artists and writers began to depict life in a way that emphasized virtue, beauty, and moral perfection, distancing themselves from the harsh realities of daily existence. Thus, 'idealized' became a term of both admiration and criticism, often used to describe portrayals that, while beautifully crafted, lack authenticity or depth.

At position #13,322, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

• ...
• 13319 biodiversity
• 13320 astray
• 13321 aptly
• 13322 idealized
• 13323 throttle
• 13324 navigate
• 13325 illuminate
• ...