surrealism

noun

sur·​re·​al·​ism sə-ˈrē-ə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce surrealism (audio)
also -ˈrā-
: the principles, ideals, or practice of producing fantastic or incongruous imagery or effects in art, literature, film, or theater by means of unnatural or irrational juxtapositions and combinations
surrealist
sə-ˈrē-ə-list How to pronounce surrealism (audio)
also -ˈrā-
noun or adjective

Examples of surrealism in a Sentence

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Their ’90s output handily presaged the logic of media like the shows that aired on Adult Swim, adapting the bounciness and surrealism of childhood stories to biting adult sensibilities. — Sasha Geffen, Pitchfork, 2 Aug. 2026 Goldberg specializes in abstract expressionism, cubism, surrealism, watercolor, collage and mixed media. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2026 Atkins spoke to Variety after its world premiere at Montreal’s Fantasia Festival about the ideas behind the film, finding truth in surrealism and the joy of reading reviews. — William Earl, Variety, 25 July 2026 Museo Ralli Marbella is known for its impressive collection of Latin American art, as well as a permanent collection heavy on surrealism. — Jennifer Fernández Solano, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for surrealism

Word History

Etymology

French surréalisme, from sur- + réalisme realism

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surrealism was in 1925

Rhymes for surrealism

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Cite this Entry

“Surrealism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surrealism. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on surrealism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about surrealism

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