illusionism

[ ih-loo-zhuh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. a technique of using pictorial methods in order to deceive the eye. Compare trompe l'oeil.
2. Philosophy. a theory or doctrine that the material world is an illusion.

illusionism

/ ɪˈluːʒəˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the doctrine that the external world exists only in illusory sense perceptions
2. the use of highly illusory effects in art or decoration, esp the use of perspective in painting to create an impression of three-dimensional reality

Other Words From

• il·lusion·istic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of illusionism¹

First recorded in 1835–45; illusion + -ism

Example Sentences

What we are blessedly free from is the red-plush Wellsian illusionism, and the click of Mr. Bennett's cash-register finish.

From Project Gutenberg