Definition

A person who is more focused on ideas and dreams than on practical matters like making money or having a steady job.

Example

He is a true luftmensch, always lost in thought and never worried about his finances.

Conversation

I met someone interesting at the café yesterday.

Oh really? What were they like?

They described themselves as a total luftmensch, just dreaming up ideas.

That sounds fascinating! I love talking to people like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Luftmensch → The word is of Yiddish origin, where 'luft' (meaning air) and 'mensch' (meaning person) combine. It describes a person who is dreamily impractical or lives in the air, often referring to someone who is idealistic and not grounded in reality.

Memory Tip

Think of 'air' ('luft') and 'person' ('mensch') to remember that a luftmensch is someone who is an idealistic person, often lost in dreams.

Visually Confused Words