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
The movie is pure escapism.
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.
But its real essence is pure escapism, whether dangling from a mountain while rappelling or relaxing in the impeccable spa with its energizing hammam rituals and fragrant frankincense oils. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 Today, the tiki scene is thriving, a hub for craft cocktails but also a reflection of our city’s penchant for dreaming and escapism. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026 Morley’s film follows Ann, who struggles to come to terms with her beloved father’s suicide and finds escapism in the emerging of new-wave punk movement. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026 With no sign at the entrance, The Cliffs is rooted in escapism and exclusivity. — Julia Sayers Gokhale, Midwest Living, 9 Aug. 2026 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

escapingly
escapism
escapist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escapism. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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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