Definition of "idea" in English

noun

1. (philosophy) An abstract archetype of a given thing, compared to which real-life examples are seen as imperfect approximations; pure essence, as opposed to actual examples.

2. (obsolete) The conception of someone or something as representing a perfect example; an ideal.

3. (obsolete) The form or shape of something; a quintessential aspect or characteristic.

4. An image of an object that is formed in the mind or recalled by the memory.

   • The mere idea of you is enough to excite me.

5. More generally, any result of mental activity; a thought, a notion; a way of thinking.

6. A conception in the mind of something to be done; a plan for doing something, an intention.

   • I have an idea of how we might escape.

7. A purposeful aim or goal; intent

   • Yeah, that's the idea.

8. A vague or fanciful notion; a feeling or hunch; an impression.

   • He had the wild idea that if he leant forward a little, he might be able to touch the mountain-top.

9. (music) A musical theme or melodic subject.