Quixotic
Word of the Day
What is Quixotic?
adjective
Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to highlight how noble dreams can both inspire and mislead — and how the tension between idealism and realism shapes human history.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
She embarked on a quixotic quest to revive an extinct language.
His plan to rebuild the town with no funding seemed quixotic at best.
The artist’s quixotic vision never aligned with the market’s demands.
Word Origins
From Don Quixote, the idealistic hero of Cervantes’ novel (1605)
Originally used to describe overly romantic or delusional idealism, based on the fictional knight Don Quixote.
First appearance in English: 18th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
-
Noun:
His quixotism inspired admiration and concern in equal measure.
-
Adjective:
She remained idealistic despite the setbacks.
-
Noun:
The project was born of a certain romanticism, not strategy.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: quijotesco
- French: quichottesque
- German: weltfremd
- Italian: donchisciottesco
- Portuguese: quixotesco
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Idealistic
“Idealistic” can be positive or hopeful; “quixotic” adds impracticality and dramatic flair.
Naïve
“Naïve” implies innocence; “quixotic” implies noble but unrealistic ambition.
Visionary
“Visionary” suggests forward-thinking genius; “quixotic” suggests bold but unworkable dreaming.
Fun Facts
- The word “quixotic” is one of the rare English adjectives derived directly from a fictional character.
- The phrase “tilting at windmills” also comes from Don Quixote, symbolizing futile efforts.
Cultural Usage
- Don Quixote tilts at windmills in a quixotic attempt to defend imagined honor.
- Activists are sometimes described as quixotic when fighting entrenched power systems with idealistic fervor.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes confused with “romantic” or “naïve”; “quixotic” suggests bold but impractical striving.
Micro Story
His quixotic mission to end all corruption made him a folk hero — and a political failure.