Imagine

Definition

Imagine is a verb that means to form a mental image or concept of something that is not currently present to the senses. It can also refer to supposing or assuming something to be true without proof.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmædʒɪn/
• Respelling: ih-MAJ-in

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmædʒɪn/
• Respelling: ih-MAJ-in

Etymology

The word "imagine" originates from the Latin "imaginari," meaning "to form a mental picture," derived from "imago," meaning "image" or "likeness." It was adopted into Middle English via Old French "imaginer," retaining its meaning of forming mental representations.

Derivatives

• Imagination (noun)
• Imaginary (adjective)
• Imaginative (adjective)
• Imagining (noun)
• Reimagine (verb)

Synonyms

• Envision
• Conceive
• Visualize

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Neglect
• Disbelieve

Usage

The term "imagine" is widely used in creative, speculative, and hypothetical contexts. For example, "Can you imagine living on Mars?" or "She imagined herself as a famous artist."

Related Terms

• Vision: The ability to think about or plan the future with imagination.
• Dream: A series of thoughts or images during sleep or an aspirational idea.
• Creativity: The ability to produce original ideas or concepts.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To form a mental image or concept of something: Refers to picturing something in the mind.
  • Example: "He imagined a peaceful life in the countryside."
• To suppose or assume something to be true without evidence: Indicates considering or hypothesizing.
  • Example: "I imagine that she will arrive on time."
• To use creativity to conceive ideas or scenarios: Refers to creating novel or artistic concepts.
  • Example: "The writer imagined a world where animals could talk."