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Webster's Dictionary (1865)

2 entries under this word

Ideal

Ī-dē'al, n.

noun

n. A conception proposed by the mind for imitation, realization, or attainment; a standard or model of perfection or duty.

The ideal is to be attained by selecting and assembling in one whole the beauties and perfections which are usually seen in different individuals, excluding every thing defective or unseemly, so as to form a type or model of the species. Thus, the Apollo Belvedere is the ideal of the beauty and proportion of the human frame. Fleming.

Ī-dē'al, a.

adjective

(124), a. [Lat. idealis, It. ideale, Sp. ideal, Fr. idéal.] 1. Existing in idea or thought; intellectual; mental; as, ideal knowledge. There will always be a wide interval between practical and ideal excellence. Rambler.

  1. Proposed for imitation, realization, or obedience; as, ideal models, rules, standards, and the like.
  2. Existing in fancy or imagination only; visionary; as, ideal good. “Planning ideal commonwealths.” Southey.
  3. Teaching the doctrine of idealism; as, the ideal theory or philosophy.

Syn.—Intellectual; mental; visionary; fanciful; imaginary; unreal.