pronunc at ideal +(l)ē or (l)i adverb
1. : in idea or imagination : by means of ideas : mentally
2. : in relation to or in the manner of an exemplar, archetype, or pattern
3.
a. : conformably to or in respect to an ideal : perfectly
b. : for best results or greatest enjoyment, efficiency, or value
ideally each meal should be planned in relation both to activity and to other meals of the day
c. : in accordance with an ideal or typical standard : classically