adj.
Pronunciation: i- ' ma-j ə - ˌ ner- ē , - ˌ ne-r ē
Function: adjective
Date: 14th century
1 a : existing only in imagination : lacking factual reality b : formed or characterized imaginatively or arbitrarily <his canvases, chiefly imaginary , somber landscapes ― Current Biog. >
2 : containing or relating to the imaginary unit < imaginary roots>
– imag · i · nari · ly \ i- ˌ ma-j ə - ' ner- ə -l ē \ adverb
– imag · i · nari · ness \ - ' ma-j ə - ˌ ner- ē -n ə s \ noun
synonyms IMAGINARY , FANCIFUL , VISIONARY , FANTASTIC , CHIMERICAL , QUIXOTIC mean unreal or unbelievable. IMAGINARY applies to something which is fictitious and purely the product of one's imagination <an imaginary desert isle>. FANCIFUL suggests the free play of the imagination <a teller of fanciful stories>. VISIONARY stresses impracticality or incapability of realization < visionary schemes>. FANTASTIC implies incredibility or strangeness beyond belief <a fantastic world inhabited by monsters>. CHIMERICAL combines the implication of VISIONARY and FANTASTIC < chimerical dreams of future progress>. QUIXOTIC implies a devotion to romantic or chivalrous ideals unrestrained by ordinary prudence and common sense <a quixotic crusade>.