ideal
i·de·al / īˈdē(ə)l/ • adj. 1. satisfying one's conception of what is perfect; most suitable: the swimming pool is ideal for a quick dip | this is an ideal opportunity to save money. 2. existing only in the imagination; desirable or perfect but not likely to become a reality: in an ideal world, we might have made a different decision. ∎ representing an abstract or hypothetical optimum: mathematical modeling can determine theoretically ideal conditions.• n. a person or thing regarded as perfect: you're my ideal of how a man should be. ∎ a standard of perfection; a principle to be aimed at: tolerance and freedom, the liberal ideals.DERIVATIVES: i·de·al·ly adv.
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