quixotic
/kwɪkˈsɒtɪk/
adjective
Origin
Spanish
Quijote — a character name; potentially derived from 'quijote' (cuisses/thigh armor)
Overview
Meaning Now
- Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical.
- Having or suggesting the qualities of Don Quixote, such as a romanticized, chivalric, or visionary outlook.
Literal older meaning
resembling the character Don Quixote
Language path
Spanish → English
Earliest form
Quixotism
Earliest period
17th century
Journey
The term derives from Don Quijote, the protagonist of Miguel de Cervantes' novel. The character is a nobleman who becomes obsessed with chivalric romance and attempts to revive knighthood, often leading to delusional and impractical escapades.
Evolution
- 1605
Don Quijote
“the titular character of the novel”
- 17th century
quixotism
“conduct modeled after Don Quixote”
Early usage appears in English shortly after the book's translation
- 18th century
quixotic
“impractically idealistic”
Adjectival form becomes established in English
Connections
Word parts
Quixot
root
referring to Don Quixote
-ic
suffix
pertaining to
Related across languages
Spanish
quijotesco
characteristic of Don Quixote
French
quichottesque
impractical or delusional
Explore next
Related to quixotic
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.