# idealized

/aɪˈdiəˌɫaɪzd/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/idealized
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to imagine someone or something as being perfect or better than they really are. You use this when you make a person or situation sound too good to be true.

For teachers: to represent or describe someone or something in an unrealistic or overly positive way. Often involves a mental image of perfection that does not reflect the actual reality.

## Examples

- He idealized his first love and forgot all the problems.
- Many young people idealize their future careers, not realizing the long hours and stress involved in the job.
- The protagonist's character is heavily idealized by the author, serving as a moral compass that contrasts sharply with the flawed, pragmatic world around him.

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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.