quixotic

American  

[kwik-sot-ik] / kwɪkˈsɒt ɪk /

Sometimes quixotical

adjective

1. (of a goal, action, or impulse) characterized by impractical idealism or by extravagant chivalry and romantic imagination.

   Synonyms:

   imaginary, fantastic, fanciful

   Antonyms:

   practical, realistic

2. impulsive, overeager, or capricious.

3. (sometimes initial capital letter) resembling or befitting Don Quixote.

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quixotic British  

/ ˈkwɪksəˌtɪzəm, kwɪkˈsɒtɪk /

adjective

1. preoccupied with an unrealistically optimistic or chivalrous approach to life; impractically idealistic

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Other Word Forms

• half-quixotic adjective
• half-quixotically adverb
• quixotically adverb
• quixotism noun
• unquixotic adjective
• unquixotical adjective
• unquixotically adverb

Etymology

Origin of quixotic

First recorded in 1805–15; (Don) Quixote + -ic

Example Sentences

“Metropolitans” proves a less quixotic project than that might suggest.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the heart of the film is Boyes’ quixotic search, aided by trackers and anthropologists, and eventually, a regional king.

From Los Angeles Times

Basically, this mascot is carrying the flag for a quixotic battle to save a dying industry.

From Los Angeles Times

Her quixotic search at times reads like a sad twist on P.D.

From The Wall Street Journal

Though Darshan’s quest might seem quixotic, legal experts say the government is evaluating more cases like his.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• dreamy
• foolish
• impractical
• impulsive
• romantic
• unrealistic
• utopian