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Dictionary Entry: Idealist

Idealist

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈaɪ.di.ə.lɪst/

Definitions

  • A person who cherishes or pursues high or noble principles, purposes, or goals.
  • In philosophy, an advocate or adherent of idealism.

Usage Examples

  • "She's an idealist who believes education can change the world."
  • "Many philosophers of the 18th century were idealists."

Etymology

From French idéaliste, derived from "ideal" + "-ist", denoting a person who practices or is concerned with something.

Synonyms

  • Visionary
  • Dreamer
  • Utopian
  • Romantic

Antonyms

  • Realist
  • Pragmatist
  • Cynic

Translations

LanguageTranslationPronunciation
SpanishIdealista/i.de.aˈlis.ta/
FrenchIdéaliste/idealist/
GermanIdealist/idealiˈst/
ItalianIdealista/ideaˈlista/
RussianИдеалист/idʲɪɐˈlʲist/
Arabicمثالي/miθaːliː/
Hindiआदर्शवादी/aadarshvaadi/
Bengaliআদর্শবাদী/adɔrshobadi/
Tamilஇடேயலிஸ்ட்/ideyalist/
Teluguఆదర్శవాది/ādarśavādi/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

  • UK: /ˈaɪ.dɪə.lɪst/
  • US: /ˈaɪ.di.ə.lɪst/
  • India: /ˈaɪ.di.jə.lɪst/

Historical Usage

The term gained prominence during the Enlightenment and Romantic periods, when thinkers emphasized ideals over empirical realities. It also surged in political and educational contexts in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Cultural Nuances

Being called an idealist may be praise or critique depending on the cultural context. In Western societies, it often implies hope and conviction; in more pragmatic cultures, it may suggest naivety or impracticality.

More Information

An idealist is not just someone who dreams, but one who sees the potential of what could be and acts accordingly. While critics argue that idealists ignore reality, supporters view them as essential drivers of progress and reform. In philosophical discourse, idealists propose that reality is mentally constructed. In society, idealists inspire change, whether through activism, innovation, or teaching. They often face resistance but play a critical role in challenging complacency and envisioning better futures.

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