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n. 1. A conception of something in its absolute perfection: the ideal of national unity. 2. One that is regarded as a standard or model of perfection or excellence: The restaurant is considered the ideal in fine dining. 3. An ultimate or worthy object of endeavor; a goal: "those who regarded even a rhetorical commitment to the ideal of disarmament as irresponsibly utopian" (James Carroll). adj. 1. Conforming to a standard of perfection or excellence; perfect or highly satisfactory: an ideal work environment. 2. a. Existing only in the mind; imaginary: an ideal world where everything works out fine. b. Lacking practicality or the possibility of realization: an ideal notion of how businesses are run. 3. Philosophy a. Existing as an archetype or pattern, especially as a Platonic idea or perception: the ideal forms. b. Of or relating to idealism. [From Middle English, pertaining to the divine archetypes of things, from Late Latin ideālis, from Latin idea, idea; see IDEA.] Synonyms: ideal, exemplar, model, standard, pattern These nouns refer to someone or something worthy of imitation or duplication. An ideal represents a sometimes unattainable level of perfection: "Comic book heroes played a major part in shaping my boyhood ideal of manliness" (Theodore Roszak). An exemplar, like a model, serves as a worthy example by being the best or most admirable of its class: "He is indeed the perfect exemplar of all nobleness" (Jane Porter)."Our fellow countryman is a model of a man" (Charles Dickens). A standard is a basis of comparison or judgment: "Alexander's conquests created a legend that would provide the standard by which other leaders measured their careers" (Eugene N. Borza). A pattern is an example worthy of imitation by reason of being an original or essential form of something: "I will be the pattern of all patience" (Shakespeare). |
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