# idealist

/aɪˈdiɫɪst/ (US) · /aɪdˈiəlɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/idealist
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a person who believes that people and society should be perfect and fair. They often focus on what is right rather than what is practical.

For teachers: a person who holds an idealized view of human nature and society, often prioritizing moral or social perfection over practical considerations.

## Examples

- The young idealist wanted to change the world.
- As a political idealist, she spent her career working on international peace treaties rather than local elections.
- While the pragmatist focused on immediate economic gains, the idealist argued that long-term social justice was the only path to true national stability.

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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.