surrealist
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /səˈrɪəlɪst/
KK: /sɚˈiːəlɪst/
adjective
Definition
Related to a style of art and literature that emphasizes the irrational and dream-like aspects of human experience.
Example
The artist's work was filled with surrealist imagery that challenged reality.
Conversation
Have you seen that new art exhibit downtown?
Yes, it was fascinating, especially the surrealist paintings.
I didn't expect them to be so thought-provoking.
I know, right? The way they play with reality is just incredible.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dreamlike
fantastic
unreal
Antonyms
realistic
literal
ordinary
noun
Definition
A person who creates or is involved in a style of art or literature that emphasizes the irrational and dream-like aspects of life.
Example
The surrealist painted a dreamlike landscape that challenged reality.
Conversation
Have you seen that new exhibit featuring a surrealist artist?
Yeah, I went last weekend, and it was amazing!
I love how surrealist art makes you think differently about reality.
Root Explanation
Surrealist → It is formed from "sur-" (meaning over or above) and "réaliste" (from French, meaning realist). The term describes an artistic movement that goes beyond realism, aiming to express the unconscious mind and dream-like scenes.
Memory Tip
Think of something that goes 'beyond' ('sur-') what is real ('réaliste') — that's why surrealist refers to art that transcends ordinary reality.
Visually Confused Words
superrealist
unrealist
realist
superrealism
scurrilist
prorealist