idea

English

/aɪˈdɪə/, /aɪˈdi.ə/, /aɪˈdɪɹ/, /ɑeˈdiə̯/

noun
Definitions
  • (philosophy) An abstract archetype of a given thing, compared to which real-life examples are seen as imperfect approximations; pure essence, as opposed to actual examples.
  • (obsolete) The conception of someone or something as representing a perfect example; an ideal.
  • (obsolete) The form or shape of something; a quintessential aspect or characteristic.
  • An image of an object that is formed in the mind or recalled by the memory.
  • More generally, any result of mental activity; a thought, a notion; a way of thinking.
  • A conception in the mind of something to be done; a plan for doing something, an intention.
  • A purposeful aim or goal; intent
  • A vague or fanciful notion; a feeling or hunch; an impression.
  • (music) A musical theme or melodic subject.

Etymology

Derived from Latin idea (archetype, a idea, idea) derived from Ancient Greek ἰδέα (notion, pattern, semblance, form) root from Proto-Indo-European *weyd- (see, know, behold, perceive, find, view, look at).

Origin

Proto-Indo-European

*weyd-

Gloss

see, know, behold, perceive, find, view, look at

Concept
Semantic Field

Sense perception

Ontological Category

Action/Process

Kanji

知

Emoji
🙈 🪚

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms