ideals
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //aɪˈdiɫz// UK //aɪdˈiəlz// ideals
n. the high standards or perfect ideas that you believe in and try to follow. They represent the best way you think people should live or behave.
n. principles or standards of perfection that serve as a guide for conduct or thought. Often pluralised when referring to a set of personal or political beliefs.
She has high ideals and always tries to do the right thing.
The young politician promised to stay true to his democratic ideals despite the pressure from his party.
While the organization's founding ideals were noble, the practical realities of international logistics often forced them to make difficult ethical compromises.
Usage
Usually used in the plural form to describe a collection of beliefs.