Word of the Day: Surreal
What's the story
The word "surreal" is an adjective used to describe something that is dreamlike or beyond reality, often in a strange, odd, or fantastical way. It can refer to events, experiences, or situations that feel like they belong in a dream rather than the real world, often evoking feelings of bewilderment or disbelief.
Origins
Origin of the word
"Surreal" originates from the French word surréaliste, which emerged in the early 20th century. The term was coined by poet Guillaume Apollinaire to describe the artistic and literary movement known as Surrealism. Surrealism aimed to explore the unconscious mind and the irrational aspects of life, often through bizarre, unexpected, or fantastical imagery.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'surreal'
Synonyms for "surreal" include dreamlike, bizarre, unreal, otherworldly, and fantastic. These words all convey a sense of something unusual or beyond normal reality, though they may have slightly different connotations. For instance, dreamlike evokes a sense of peacefulness, while bizarre suggests something that is unusually strange or odd.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here are examples of how "surreal" can be used in sentences: "The quiet, 'surreal' glow of the moonlit beach made it feel like a scene from another world." "Her dreamlike smile and the soft melody created a 'surreal' atmosphere in the room." "The 'surreal' beauty of the desert sunset left me speechless, as if time had frozen."
Extraordinary
Why use the word
Using the word "surreal" adds vividness and emotional depth to your descriptions. It conveys a sense of wonder or confusion, often highlighting something extraordinary or inexplicable. Whether describing art, experiences, or events, "surreal" captures the feeling of something that defies logic or expectation, making it a powerful word for creating impactful imagery.