Fantasy

Definition

Fantasy is the act or process of imagining things that are impossible or improbable, often involving magical elements, alternative worlds, or mythical creatures.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfæntəsi/
• Respelling: FAN-tuh-see (with "FAN" as in "fan," "tuh" as in "sofa," and "see" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfæntəsi/
• Respelling: FAN-tuh-see (with "FAN" as in "fan," "tuh" as in "sofa," and "see" as in "see")

In both dialects, "fantasy" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FAN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FAN-tuh-see."

Etymology

The word "fantasy" comes from the Old French "fantaisie," which means "vision, imagination." This, in turn, is derived from the Latin "phantasia," which means "appearance, imagination," borrowed from Greek "phantazein," meaning "to make visible."

Derivatives

• Fantasize (verb)
• Fantastic (adjective)
• Fantastical (adjective)
• Fantasyland (noun)
• Fantasist (noun)

Synonyms

• Imagination
• Dream
• Illusion

Antonyms

• Reality
• Fact
• Truth

Usage

"Fantasy" is widely used to describe a literary genre that involves magical elements, otherworldly settings, and mythical creatures. It is also used more generally to describe imaginative ideas or scenarios that are not grounded in reality.

Related Terms

• Fiction: Literature that is based on imagined events and characters.
• Myth: A traditional story or legend that explains the practices, beliefs, or natural phenomena.
• Magic: The power to influence events using mysterious forces.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Speculative Fiction: A genre of fiction that uses magic or other supernatural elements as a primary plot element, theme, or setting.
  • Example: J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" is one of the most famous works of fantasy literature.

• Imaginative Creation: Refers to a creation of the imagination, especially one that is highly elaborate or extravagant.
  • Example: The artist's work is filled with fantastical scenes and creatures, a true product of his fantasy.

Verb (Fantasize)

• To Fantasize: To imagine or daydream about something that is unlikely to happen or is purely imaginary.
  
  • Example: He often fantasizes about traveling the world without any worries.