the belief that reality is based on ideas and mental perceptions rather than material objects
example
His philosophical idealism led him to believe that our thoughts shape our reality more than physical objects ever could.
synonyms
mentalismconceptualismplatonicism
word origin — The word 'idealism' comes from the French word 'idéalisme', which is derived from 'idéal' meaning 'ideal', and the Greek word 'idein' meaning 'to see'.
SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 128
Set 128 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: idealism, bugle, hindrance, fray, hearth. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
idealism · noun/aɪˈdiəlˌɪzəm/
the belief that reality is based on ideas and mental perceptions rather than material objects
His philosophical idealism led him to believe that our thoughts shape our reality more than physical objects ever could.
Synonyms: mentalism, conceptualism, platonicism
Origin: The word 'idealism' comes from the French word 'idéalisme', which is derived from 'idéal' meaning 'ideal', and the Greek word 'idein' meaning 'to see'.
bugle · noun/ˈbjuːɡəl/
a brass musical instrument with a simple, conical shape and a bright sound commonly used in military ceremonies
During the military parade, the soldiers marched proudly as the bugle sounded, signaling the start of the ceremony.
Synonyms: trumpet, musical instrument, signal horn
Origin: The word 'bugle' is derived from the Middle English term 'bugle,' which referred to a horn or trumpet, originating from the Old French 'bugle' (a hunting horn) and further tracing back to the Latin 'bugula' (a term for a horn), related to 'bos' meaning cow.
hindrance · noun/hɪndrəns/
something that creates difficulty or delay in achieving a goal
Her lack of experience was a significant hindrance to her promotion at work.
Synonyms: obstacle, impediment, obstruction
Origin: Middle English from Old French 'hindrance', from 'hinder' meaning 'to hinder'
fray · verb/freɪ/
to show the effects of strain or wear
The edges of the old carpet began to fray after years of heavy foot traffic.
Synonyms: wear, unravel, deteriorate
Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'frayer', meaning 'to rub or wear away'; related to the notion of conflict or wear due to friction.
hearth · noun/hɑrθ/
the floor of a fireplace or the area in front of it
The family gathered around the warm hearth, sharing stories as the fire crackled softly.
Synonyms: fireplace, fireside, hearthstone
Origin: Old English 'heorð', meaning 'hot, burning' or 'place of warmth'