dreamer

[ dree-mer ]

noun

1. a person who dreams:

   The dream provides insights into the interior life of the dreamer, or so say many psychotherapists.

2. a person who lives in a world of fantasy; one who is impractical and unrealistic:

   The phrase "economically illiterate" has long been used to smear leftists as unrealistic utopian dreamers.

3. a person whose ideas or projects are considered audacious or highly speculative; visionary:

   Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was considered a dreamer—and what a wonderful dream it is!

4. Usually Dreamer. Sometimes DREAMer. a person who qualifies for DACA or the Dream Act.

dreamer

/ ˈdriːmə /

noun

1. a person who dreams habitually
2. a person who lives in or escapes to a world of fantasy or illusion; escapist
3. archaic.
   a prophet; visionary

Word History and Origins

Origin of dreamer¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; dreamer def 4 first recorded in 2010–15; Middle English; dream, -er ¹( def )

Example Sentences

We have one play, called “A Girl Grows Wings,” about the dreamers.

From Los Angeles Times

He was also a “dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny.”

From Los Angeles Times

Is California a sun-kissed incubator of innovation and opportunity that continues to beckon doers and dreamers from the world over, as it has for well over 150 years?

From Los Angeles Times

“Lucy-Bleu was a talented artist, a passionate dreamer, and a charming, lovable, sweet soul,” the statement said.

From Los Angeles Times

When questioned later the head of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin said: “We are not dreamers and we do not believe in dreams.”

From BBC

Related Words

• idealist