escapism

Definition of escapismnext
as in entertainment
an activity that allows people to forget about the real problems of life The movie is pure escapism. Reading romantic novels is for her a form of escapism.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of escapism Yet there is no real escapism, because for all her critics, Gu is the harshest. Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026 The Caribbean, in particular, is often approached with a level of escapism, thanks to its warm temperatures, all-inclusive hotel comforts, and stunning shorelines where time slows down. Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 23 Feb. 2026 Contrary to popular belief, reality television actually boasts some quality storytelling, offering endless entertainment to viewers who are interested in human nature, seeking escapism, or marveling at impressive displays of talent. Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Feb. 2026 Pisces' biggest struggle in 2026 No more escapism. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for escapism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for escapism
Noun
  • The book portrays an authoritarian near-future Russia where most entertainment and all news comes through Cameras, people wired to transmit their experiences directly from their brains to the internet.
    Stephanie Burt, New Yorker, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter.
    Ashley Boucher, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • But then Bennett later pulled the same trick at the Beverly Hilton hotel, to McCartney’s amusement.
    Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, 29 Mar. 2026
  • No one wants to be a jester, debasing oneself for a more powerful person’s amusement.
    Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Character names fade, plot twists dissolve, but the enjoyment of the moment remains.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Attempts at policing enjoyment led to the suppression of longtime carnival customs.
    Tim Brinkhof, JSTOR Daily, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • May 21 – June 20 This morning invites silent relaxation before words rush in.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The spa The serene, partially subterranean spa has seven treatment rooms, hammams, saunas, and a spacious relaxation area.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Escapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/escapism. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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