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Definition of escapism

escapism

/ɪˈskeɪpɪzəm/
es · cap · ism
Adjective:escapist
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escapism Lexical Profile

escapism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The tendency to seek distraction and relief from unpleasant realities, especially by seeking entertainment or engaging in fantasy.

Example

"During stressful exam weeks, reading science fiction novels provided her with a welcome sense of escapism."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for escapism

• Rhymes for escapism

• Nearby Words

escape
escapee
escaper
escapism
escapist
escapologist
escargot

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 1930s during the Great Depression, formed from the verb 'escape' (from Old Northern French 'escaper', meaning to get out of one's cloak and flee) combined with the suffix '-ism'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Escapism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/escapism
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