quixotics

Definition

Noun (plural in form but usually treated as singular or plural): The quality or actions characteristic of Don Quixote; specifically, impractical, romantic, or idealistic notions or conduct, often marked by a noble but foolish disregard for reality or practical considerations.

Usage Examples

• (His idealistic but impractical proposals.)
• (His noble but foolishly optimistic actions.)

Advanced Usage

• "to indulge in quixotics": to engage in or be absorbed by unrealistic, romantic schemes.
  • She spent her youth indulging in quixotics, dreaming of rescuing the downtrodden without a plan. (She pursued impractical, chivalric fantasies.)

Variants and Related Words

• Quixotic (adj): extremely idealistic, unrealistic, and impractical.

  • His quixotic quest to end hunger single-handedly was admired but doomed. (His idealistic but impractical goal.)

• Quixotry (n): a synonym for quixotics, meaning the state or practice of being quixotic.

  • The novel explores the tension between reality and quixotry. (The tension between practicality and idealistic folly.)

Synonyms

• Idealism: the practice of forming or pursuing ideals, especially unrealistically.
• Romanticism: a tendency to view things in an idealized, often sentimental, manner.
• Folly: lack of good sense; foolishness.

Related Idioms

• Tilt at windmills: to attack imaginary enemies or fight pointless battles (from Don Quixote's famous scene).

  • His campaign against the new policy was like tilting at windmills — noble but futile. (Fighting an imaginary or unassailable foe.)

• Chase rainbows: to pursue unrealistic or unattainable goals.

  • Investing all his savings in that startup was chasing rainbows; it was pure quixotics. (Pursuing an impossible dream.)