Definition

A tendency to be overly idealistic or romantic, often leading to unrealistic or impractical plans.

Example

His quixotry often led him to pursue dreams that were impossible to achieve.

Conversation

I was reading about Don Quixote and his quixotry yesterday.

Oh really? His adventures are so amusing and a bit ridiculous.

Exactly! It's fascinating how his quixotry leads him to believe he can change the world.

Yeah, but it also shows how dreaming big can sometimes be a bit misguided.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Quixotry is derived from 'Quixote' (from the character Don Quixote in Miguel de Cervantes' novel, representing an idealistic but impractical pursuit of noble ideals) and the suffix '-ry' (meaning a state or condition). The term refers to the state of being quixotic, characterized by romantic ideals and impracticality.

Memory Tip

Think of the character Don Quixote, who embodies the pursuit of noble but unrealistic ideals, to remember that quixotry refers to the state of being overly idealistic.

Visually Confused Words