Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/driːm/

Definitions

• As a noun: A series of thoughts, images, or emotions occurring during sleep; a vision or a vivid thought.
• A strongly desired goal or aspiration; an ideal.
• As a verb: To experience or have a dream during sleep.
• To imagine or aspire towards something.

Usage Examples

• "She had a beautiful dream about flying through the sky."
• "His dream of becoming a doctor finally came true."
• "I dream of traveling around the world one day."

Etymology

The word "dream" comes from Old English "drēam," meaning joy, pleasure, or mirth, originally referring to a state of happiness or delight. Over time, it evolved to mean a sequence of images and sensations that occur in the mind during sleep. The modern sense of "dream" as an aspiration or goal arose later in the 16th century.

Synonyms

• Vision
• Fantasy
• Reverie
• Desire
• Goal

Antonyms

• Nightmare
• Reality
• Awakening
• Fact

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "dream" is typically pronounced with a long "e" sound in most English dialects. In some regional accents, particularly British English, it may sound more like "dree-um" or "dray-um." In American English, the standard pronunciation is generally "dree-m." However, regional dialects and local variations may influence the pronunciation in some areas.

Historical Usage

The concept of "dreams" has been prevalent across cultures for millennia. In ancient Greece, dreams were often interpreted as messages from the gods. The word "dream" evolved from meanings relating to joy and mirth in Old English and later became associated with visions during sleep. Over time, the meaning expanded to include aspirations and desires, reflecting a shift from the purely physiological phenomenon to a more symbolic, emotional experience.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, dreams are considered significant, often believed to offer insights into one's subconscious or the future. In Western psychology, dreams are often interpreted through Freudian or Jungian theories. In other traditions, such as Aboriginal Australian culture, dreams are tied to the concept of the Dreamtime, a sacred period in which the world was created. Across the world, dreams have held both mystical and practical importance.

More Information

The study of dreams, or oneirology, has fascinated scholars, poets, and psychologists throughout history. Dreams have been interpreted in various ways: from divine omens to reflections of our inner thoughts. In modern times, the psychological analysis of dreams has led to theories about their significance in understanding human behavior and mental processes. Whether viewed as a neurological phenomenon or a deeply symbolic experience, dreams continue to captivate the human imagination.