ideal

[ ahy-dee-uhl, ahy-deel ]
/ aɪˈdi əl, aɪˈdil /

noun

adjective

Origin of ideal

From the Late Latin word ideālis, dating back to 1605–15. See idea, -al1

synonym study for ideal

1, 2. Ideal, example, model refer to something considered as a standard to strive toward or something considered worthy of imitation. An ideal is a concept or standard of perfection, existing merely as an image in the mind, or based upon a person or upon conduct: We admire the high ideals of a religious person. Sir Philip Sidney was considered the ideal in gentlemanly conduct. An example is a person or the conduct or achievements of a person regarded as worthy of being followed or imitated in a general way; or sometimes, as properly to be avoided: an example of courage; a bad example to one's children. A model is primarily a physical shape to be closely copied, but is also a pattern for exact imitation in conduct or character: They took their leader as a model.

OTHER WORDS FROM ideal

Example sentences from the Web for ideals

British Dictionary definitions for ideals

ideal
/ (aɪˈdɪəl) /

noun

a conception of something that is perfect, esp that which one seeks to attain
a person or thing considered to represent perfection he's her ideal
something existing only as an idea
a pattern or model, esp of ethical behaviour

adjective

Derived forms of ideal

ideality (ˌaɪdɪˈælɪtɪ), noun ideally, adverb idealness, noun

Medical definitions for ideals

ideal
[ ī-dēəl, ī-dēl ]

n.

A conception of something in its absolute perfection.
One that is regarded as a standard or model of perfection or excellence.