adjective / noun
ideal
eye-DEE-ul/aɪˈdiːəl/
A standard of perfection toward which someone strives.
The perfectly fitting shoe represents the ideal against which the others fall short.
Etymology
An idea here was an archetype or model, not simply a thought. Ideal moved from describing such a model to describing something conceived as perfect, hence perfectly suited or most desirable.
In context
they are animals that are strong and dependable making them the ideal choice for the numerous activities
More examples
- Equal access to education remains an ideal worth pursuing.
- He refuses to abandon his ideals for a promotion.
- We aim to create an ideal environment for learning.
Forms
ideal · ideals
idealist noun — Someone who pursues high principles or perfection.
idealism noun — Belief in and pursuit of high ideals.