as in to idealize
to represent or think of as better than reality would warrant he romanticized what life in a small town would be like, only to be later disappointed when reality intruded

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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 romanticize Though fictional, the series romanticizes a not-so-distant past in which creatives wowed enterprise organizations with the fruits of their fertile imaginations. Michael Ashley, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 Wes has romanticized the literary arts for almost his whole career. Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 2 June 2025 An everything shower is a social media trend that romanticizes showers as a self-care extravaganza that stands out against your typical rinse-and-repeat. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 22 May 2025 Both the Lolita book and film have been heavily criticized for decades for romanticizing pedophilia. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for romanticize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for romanticize
Verb
  • Goodness knows, with the help of costume designer Nanette Acosta, and whoever did her hair and makeup, Anderson transforms into something of a brainy, idealized 1940s Hollywood or Broadway ingenue.
    Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
  • Ideas From Other Sectors Finding inspiration is always difficult, especially because, in my opinion, the most common mistake is falling in love with your own ideas, idealizing them.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • In the early 20th century, cigarette smoking was glamorized in Hollywood, normalized by doctors and deeply embedded in American life.
    John Samuels, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • Yet, alcohol is often seen as a rite of passage into adulthood in shows and movies, which glamorize alcohol.
    Markus Lindblad, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Romanticize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/romanticize. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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