adequate idea

noun

: an idea that is commensurate to its object: such as
a
in Spinoza : an idea having all the intrinsic marks of a true idea
b
in Leibniz : an idea clearly understood and analyzed into simple components

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adequate idea was in 1641

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near adequate idea

Cite this Entry

“Adequate idea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adequate%20idea. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!