Surrealist: meaning, definitions and examples

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surrealist

 

[ səˈrɪəlɪst ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

art movement

A surrealist is an artist or writer who is part of the surrealism movement, which originated in the early 20th century. This movement is characterized by its focus on the subconscious and dream-like imagery. Surrealists aim to challenge the perceptions of reality and often depict strange, illogical scenes filled with unexpected juxtapositions. Famous surrealists include Salvador Dalí and André Breton, who believed that merging dream and reality could unlock the creative potential of the human mind.

Synonyms

dreamer, imaginative artist, visionary.

Examples of usage

  • Salvador Dalí is one of the most famous surrealists.
  • The gallery is featuring a collection of works by contemporary surrealists.
  • Surrealists often drew inspiration from their dreams.
  • The surrealist movement had a profound impact on modern art.
Context #2 | Adjective

art/style

Describing something as surrealist refers to the characteristics that define the surrealism movement. Surrealist art often features dream-like scenes, bizarre combinations of objects, and unusual perspectives. It aims to evoke the subconscious mind and create an emotional response through its disorienting imagery. Surrealist works may defy logic and challenge viewers to explore deeper meanings beyond the visible.

Synonyms

dreamlike, fantastical, outlandish.

Examples of usage

  • The exhibit showcased surrealist paintings that twisted reality.
  • He uses surrealist techniques to explore complex themes in his writing.
  • Her surrealist sculptures often leave viewers feeling unsettled.
  • The film's surrealist elements create a dreamlike atmosphere.

Translations

Translations of the word "surrealist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 surrealista

🇮🇳 सुर्रियलिस्ट

🇩🇪 Surrealist

🇮🇩 surealis

🇺🇦 сюрреаліст

🇵🇱 surrealista

🇯🇵 シュルレアリスト

🇫🇷 surréaliste

🇪🇸 surrealista

🇹🇷 sürrealist

🇰🇷 초현실주의자

🇸🇦 سوريالي

🇨🇿 surrealista

🇸🇰 surrealista

🇨🇳 超现实主义者

🇸🇮 surrealist

🇮🇸 súrrealisti

🇰🇿 сюрреалист

🇬🇪 სურეალისტი

🇦🇿 sürrealist

🇲🇽 surrealista

Etymology

The term 'surrealist' originates from the French word 'surréaliste,' which was coined by the poet Guillaume Apollinaire in 1917. It first described a new artistic movement that sought to transcend the logical and rational thought processes of realism. The surrealism movement gained momentum in the 1920s and became associated with the works of famous artists such as Salvador Dalí and René Magritte. Surrealism emerged in the aftermath of World War I, reflecting artists' disillusionment with reality and societal norms. Through its exploration of the subconscious and dreams, surrealism aimed to unlock the creative potential of the human mind, challenging established conventions in art, literature, and philosophy. This philosophical approach continues to influence contemporary art and culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,406, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.