idealized
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /aɪˈdiːəlaɪzd/
KK: /aɪˈdiːəlaɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is viewed as perfect or the best possible version, often not reflecting reality.
Example
The artist created an idealized version of the landscape, making it look more beautiful than it actually is.
Conversation
I saw that new painting at the gallery yesterday.
Oh, really? What did you think of it?
It was beautiful, but it felt a bit too idealized for my taste.
I get that — sometimes art can make things look too perfect.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
perfected
exalted
utopian
Antonyms
imperfect
realistic
flawed
verb
Definition
To represent something in a way that makes it seem perfect or better than it really is.
Example
Many people idealized their childhood memories, forgetting the challenges they faced.
Tense Forms
Past: idealized
Past Participle: idealized
Conversation
Did you ever think about how we idealized our childhood memories?
Definitely! It feels like everything was so much simpler back then.
Right? I sometimes catch myself wishing I could go back to those days.
Root Explanation
Idealized → It is formed from "ideal" (from Greek "idealis", meaning existing in idea or form) and "-ized" (a suffix meaning to make or become). The word "idealized" means to make something into an ideal or to represent it as perfect.
Memory Tip
Think of turning something into a perfect 'idea' ('ideal') — that's what 'idealized' means.
Visually Confused Words
unidealized
deidealize
siderealize
devitalized