imaginary — existing only in one's mind; not real or actual
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing only in one's mind; not real or actual
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˈmædʒɪˌneri/
Example Sentences
- My bank account balance is purely imaginary at this point.
- Children often create imaginary companions to help them cope with loneliness.
- The imaginary monsters under my bed turned out to be my cat's toys.
imaginary
ADJECTIVE[/ɪˈmædʒɪˌneri/]
existing only in one's mind; not real or actual
An imaginary spaceship appeared around the child's cardboard box.
An imaginary kingdom floated above the girl's head. (IMAGE + NOT REAL = IMAGINARY → existing only as a mental image)
An imaginary idea inspired a visionary creator and became legendary.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'imaginarius' meaning 'of or belonging to an image,' derived from 'imago' meaning 'image' or 'likeness.' The word entered Middle English through Old French.
Breakdown
imag- (image, from Latin imago) + -in- (connective) + -ary (adjective suffix meaning 'of or relating to') = imaginary
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My bank account balance is purely imaginary at this point.”
“Children often create imaginary companions to help them cope with loneliness.”
“The imaginary monsters under my bed turned out to be my cat's toys.”
“In mathematics, imaginary numbers are essential for complex calculations.”
📚Related Words
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