-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
Examples of escapism in a Sentence
Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Don’t fall into the trap of escapism — facing these truths head-on will set you free.
—
Valerie Mesa, People.com, 28 Jan. 2025
According to a Statista 2023 survey, 40% of workers in the UK have resumed full-time office attendance or hybrid work, and many are rediscovering the convenience and escapism of books during their journeys.
—
Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025
The finding that open-world games may enhance people’s well-being through enhanced escapism and relaxation is not trivial, given the growing evidence that other forms of entertainment, such as traditional social media, contribute to adolescent anxiety and depression.
—
New Atlas, 19 Dec. 2024
With Trump in office, the ever-reactive entertainment business will internalize some of the culture’s rightward shift, mostly by focusing on producing nonpartisan escapism.
—
Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for escapism ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2025-02-06--20-43-45-x16ho/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
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.
Word History
First Known Use
1933, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near escapism
Cite this Entry
“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm
: a habit of thinking or a form of entertainment about purely imaginary or amusing things that provides an escape from reality or everyday matters
Medical Definition
escapism
noun
es·cap·ism
is-ˈkā-ˌpiz-əm
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
More from Merriam-Webster on escapism
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for escapism
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share