escapism

[ih-skey-piz-uhm]

noun

1. the avoidance of reality by absorption of the mind in entertainment or in an imaginative situation, activity, etc.

escapism

/ ɪˈskeɪpɪzəm /

noun

1. an inclination to or habit of retreating from unpleasant or unacceptable reality, as through diversion or fantasy

Other Word Forms

• escapist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of escapism¹

First recorded in 1930–35; escape + -ism

Example Sentences

In a time of constantly looming shaky ground, Hollis presents escapism as mindful.

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I’m curious about this type of massage, the kind that combines pampering with ancient knowledge — escapism meets medicine.

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But, as the world becomes more connected, it seems such escapism cannot escape the attention of some of the causes.

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"At the end of the day, it's about escapism," Varun explains, pointing to how he feels about the current state of the world.

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She says she often comes for weekends and that it was an "escapism from everyday life".

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Related Words

• evasion 
• prevention 
• restraint