idealize

[ ahy-dee-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, i·de·al·ized, i·de·al·iz·ing.

1. to make ideal; represent in an ideal form or character; exalt to an ideal perfection or excellence.

verb (used without object)

, i·de·al·ized, i·de·al·iz·ing.

1. to represent something in an ideal form.

idealize

/ aɪˈdɪəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to consider or represent (something) as ideal
2. tr to portray as ideal; glorify
3. intr to form an ideal or ideals

Derived Forms

• iˈdealˌizer, noun

Other Words From

• i·deal·izer noun
• over·i·deal·ize verb overidealized overidealizing
• uni·deal·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of idealize¹

First recorded in 1780–90; ideal + -ize

Example Sentences

But typically, in healthier times than ours, the connection between a candidate’s character and actions on the one hand, and their idealized symbolic projection on the other, remains visible and therefore functional.

From Salon

We live in a culture that has idealized parenthood while simultaneously shaming parents for every problem their child encounters.

From Salon

For example, you do not engage in conversations based on “mutual respect” and “the free exchange of ideas” and such niceties and quaint idealized assumptions with enemies of democracy.

From Salon

She idealizes having a big, happy family, but there are aspects of the world that give her pause, so she struggles with whether it’s morally OK to have children.

From Los Angeles Times

A boom in swimming pool construction tied to the post-war suburbanization of the state was another factor popularizing an idealized California lifestyle built around leisure and recreation.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• glorify