ideal

[ahy-dee-uhl, ahy-deel] / aɪˈdi əl, aɪˈdil /

ADJECTIVE

model, perfect

Synonyms

STRONGEST

excellent fitting optimal quintessential

STRONG

Shangri-la absolute classic classical representative

WEAK

archetypal complete consummate exemplary flawless have-it-all indefectible paradigmatic pie-in-the-sky prototypical supreme

Antonyms

WEAK

actual common flawed imperfect incorrect problematic wrong

ADJECTIVE

conceptual; impractical

Synonyms

STRONGEST

unattainable unreal

STRONG

abstract hypothetical imaginary intellectual utopian visionary

WEAK

chimerical dreamlike extravagant fanciful fictitious high-flown in the clouds ivory-tower mental mercurial notional out of reach quixotic theoretical transcendent transcendental unearthly

Antonyms

WEAK

practical pragmatic

NOUN

model

Synonyms

STRONGEST

goal perfection standard

STRONG

archetype criterion epitome example exemplar idol jewel mirror nonesuch nonpareil paradigm paragon pattern prototype

WEAK

last word

Antonyms

WEAK

error flaw imperfection problem wrong

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Zuckerberg called glasses “the ideal form factor for personal superintelligence,” during his introduction of the latest specs at the company’s Meta Connect conference last year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Clover has been recovering well at the zoo and is getting close to her ideal body weight for her age.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

The ideal coffee cake lives in a narrow textural corridor.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026

Being from the same confederation as Haiti, Curacao were seen as ideal opponents to help prepare for their World Cup group opener in Boston on 14 June.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

The little island was an ideal place to plant a garden.

From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer

ideal

Example Sentences

Related Words