escapism

noun

es·​cap·​ism i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist adjective or noun

Examples of escapism in a Sentence

Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Stepping into someone else’s life can be a blessed piece of escapism. Carolyn Wells, Longreads, 13 Dec. 2024 Hotels, long regarded as temples of escapism, have recognised the opportunity to extend their brand identity into consumers’ everyday lives. Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024 The Undoing was a smash hit for HBO in part due to providential timing, serving as primo-grade fever-dream escapism during the deep winter of the pandemic. Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 26 Oct. 2024 For Wong, dating is purely about her own desires, a mindset most of her civilian peers will view as aspirational escapism rather than a realistic model. Variety, NBC News, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for escapism 

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of escapism was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near escapism

Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
escapist adjective or noun

Medical Definition

escapism

noun
es·​cap·​ism is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist adjective or noun

More from Merriam-Webster on escapism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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