idealize

especially British, i·de·al·ise

[ahy-dee-uh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

idealized, idealizing 

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

verb (used without object)

idealized, idealizing 

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

Other Word Forms

• idealizer noun
• overidealize verb
• unidealized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of idealize¹

First recorded in 1780–90; ideal + -ize

Example Sentences

TWA is one such semiclassical approach that dates back to the 1970s, but is limited to isolated, idealized quantum systems where no energy is gained or lost.

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She maintains a nuanced sense of humanity’s transgressions and innocence, without demonizing or idealizing either side.

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In a sense, Sweeney writes Dennis as someone also mourning the death of an idealized situation he thought would fix him.

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Girls from the ages of 11 to 15 idealize pinups like him who have been packaged as handsome, innocuous and flat.

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At all times idealized in his physical features, he’s the living embodiment of the irresistible force paradox — an immovable power and an unstoppable object all at once.

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Related Words

• glorify