Definition

To view or represent something in an overly positive or perfect way, often ignoring its flaws or shortcomings.

Example

Many people tend to overidealize their childhood memories, forgetting the challenges they faced.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think people tend to overidealize their childhood memories.

Yeah, I guess we often forget the tough parts.

Right? It seems like everyone remembers only the good times.

Exactly, life wasn’t always that perfect!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overidealize → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "idealize" (from "ideal" which comes from Latin "idealis", meaning pertaining to an idea, and the suffix "-ize" meaning to make or become). The word means to excessively make something into an ideal or to view it in an overly idealistic manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over' meaning excessively, and 'idealize' meaning to make something into an ideal. This helps you remember that to overidealize means to excessively view something as perfect.

Visually Confused Words