escapism

noun

es·​cap·​ism i-ˈskā-ˌpi-zəm How to pronounce escapism (audio)
Synonyms of escapismnext
: habitual diversion of the mind to purely imaginative activity or entertainment as an escape from reality or routine
escapist
i-ˈskā-pist How to pronounce escapism (audio)
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.
Courtesy of Crate & Barrel When designing the outdoor collection, Arnold combined Hollywood Regency glamour with English countryside elegance to evoke a sense of high-brow escapism. — Morgan Goldberg, Architectural Digest, 13 Mar. 2025 Movies and theme parks both feature escapism elements. — Dewayne Bevil, Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2025 But above all, the Luxembourg City Film Festival wants to celebrate cinema and provide some escapism for its audiences. — Georg Szalai, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Mar. 2025 The theme park attractions are located in Lake Buena Vista and Bay Lake, a swath of fantasy land, dazzling escapism, and immersive attractions just south of the city. — Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2025 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

Rhymes for escapism

See All Rhymes for escapism

Browse Nearby Words

escapism
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Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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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
-pəst How to pronounce escapism (audio)
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
-pəst How to pronounce escapism (audio)
adjective or noun

More from Merriam-Webster on escapism

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for escapism

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