Meaning 1neutral · 90%
Belief in high principles and in the possibility of making things better.
Natural examples
Her idealism drew her into community work.
Critics dismissed the proposal as youthful idealism.
Idealism can inspire change even when resources are limited.
Usage note
Idealism may be admired as principled or criticized as unrealistic; tone depends on context.
Useful combinations
youthful idealism — hopeful commitment to high principles — belief in a better political or social order