# escapism

/ɪˈskeɪˌpɪzəm/ (US) · /ɛskˈeɪpɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/escapism
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a way of avoiding boring or stressful parts of real life by getting lost in books, films, games, or daydreams. You turn to it when you want a short break from reality.

For teachers: a tendency to seek distraction from unpleasant reality through fantasy, entertainment, or imagination. Often implies avoidance of responsibility when used critically.

## Examples

- She loves fantasy novels as pure escapism.
- After long shifts at the hospital, he finds escapism in video games for an hour each evening.
- Critics argue that the novel offers more than escapism, using its imagined world to reflect on grief and memory.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.