idealist
/aɪˈdiːəlɪst/
NOUN
1. A person who adheres to idealism
A person who believes in or follows idealistic principles, emphasizing ideas, ideals, values, or the importance of the mind in understanding reality.
1.1. Philosophical idealism
A person who supports the philosophical doctrine that ideas, consciousness, or mental representations are fundamental to understanding reality.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The professor was known for being an outspoken idealist in the realm of philosophy.
Related Words
NOUN
2. A person guided by high ideals rather than practicality
Someone who pursues noble principles, hopes, or visions of a better world, often placing moral or ideological values above practical considerations.
2.1. Optimism and positive expectations
A person who maintains a hopeful outlook and believes that people and circumstances can improve.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- pessimist
- cynic
- defeatist
Examples
- She remained an idealist throughout her career, always striving for a better world.
- Despite the challenges, the young activist remained a dedicated idealist at heart.
Related Words
- optimism
- hopefulness
- positivity
- confidence
- enthusiasm
- aspiration
2.2. Moral principles and social reform
A person committed to noble causes, ethical principles, or improving society through determined advocacy and action.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- cynic
- pragmatist
- practical person
Examples
- The idealist dedicated his life to fighting poverty and promoting social equality.
Related Words
- activist
- campaigner
- humanitarian
- philanthropist
- reform
- social justice
- altruism
NOUN
3. An unrealistic or impractical visionary
A person whose hopes, beliefs, or plans are excessively optimistic or imaginative and fail to account for practical difficulties and real-world limitations.
3.1. Impractical dreams and unrealistic expectations
Someone who pursues ambitious or fanciful ideas without adequately considering whether they can realistically be achieved.
Synonyms
- daydreamer
- dreamer
- escapist
- fantasizer
- fantast
- woolgatherer
- romancer
- utopian
Antonyms
- realist
- pragmatist
- practical person
- hard-headed person
Examples
- The novel's protagonist was portrayed as an unwavering idealist, determined to bring about positive change.
- Some colleagues considered him an idealist because his plans ignored the financial limitations of the project.
Related Words
- quixotic
- impracticality
- unrealism
- fantasy
- wishful thinking
- speculation
- chimerical thinking
3.2. Sentimental and overly trusting outlook
A person whose hopeful or emotionally driven beliefs overlook unpleasant realities, often displaying excessive innocence or faith in others.
Synonyms
- Pollyanna
- sentimentalist
- romantic
- romanticist
- starry-eyed dreamer
Antonyms
- cynic
- clear-eyed realist
- hard-nosed person
- unsentimental person
Examples
- Her idealism made her believe that every disagreement could be resolved through kindness and understanding.
Related Words
- sentimentality
- naivety
- innocence
- credulity
- wishful thinking
- rose-colored glasses