Definition

The condition of being strange or dreamlike, often in a way that is difficult to understand or explain.

Example

The artist's work captures the essence of surreality, making viewers question reality itself.

Conversation

Did you see that art exhibit downtown?

Yeah, it was full of such surreality that I couldn't take my eyes off it.

I loved how each piece made you think differently about reality.

Exactly! It was like stepping into a dream.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Surreality is formed from "sur-" (meaning over or above, from Latin *super*) and "reality" (from Latin *realitas*, meaning the state of things as they actually exist). The word describes a state that is beyond or above ordinary reality, often associated with dream-like or surreal experiences.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sur-' meaning 'above' and 'reality' as the state of things — surreality refers to a state that is above or beyond normal reality, like a dream.

Visually Confused Words