unreality

[ uhn-ree-al-i-tee ]

noun

, plural un·re·al·i·ties.

1. lack of reality; quality of being unreal:

   the unreality of dreams.

2. something that is unreal, invalid, imaginary, or illusory:

   She appeared to be living in a world of unrealities.

3. incompetence or impracticality, especially in everyday matters.

unreality

/ ˌʌnrɪˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or state of being unreal, fanciful, or impractical
2. something that is unreal

Word History and Origins

Origin of unreality¹

First recorded in 1745–55; un- ¹ + reality

Example Sentences

This was the first "unreality" election — a lot of people couldn't figure out what was true or who to trust, and just gave up trying.

From Salon

But the proliferation of such unrealities allows many to accept “The Handmaid’s Tale” at face value, drawing relief from its alternate reality designation.

From Salon

But there is a seduction to the unreality of these images, too.

From New York Times

Able to create beautiful, lived-in realities and fantastical unrealities that are overflowing with detail.

From Salon

But by that point, the reunion has already taken on a peculiar sadness, a tinge of unreality that only a cruel shock of daylight and the tears on your pillow will be able to explain.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• artistry
• awareness
• fancy
• fantasy
• idea
• image
• imagery
• ingenuity
• insight
• inspiration
• intelligence
• inventiveness
• originality
• resourcefulness
• thought
• vision
• wit