idea

i-de-a · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A thought or suggestion about a possible course of action.

  2. 2.

    A concept or mental impression.

  3. 3.

    A belief or opinion.

  4. 4.

    An aim or purpose.

  5. 5.

    A vague awareness or understanding.

Forms

plural: ideas

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    the very idea — expressing indignation or surprise
  • •
    get the idea — understand something
  • •
    what's the big idea? — demanding an explanation for unacceptable behavior
  • •
    not have the foggiest idea — have no idea at all
  • •
    that's an idea — expressing approval of a suggestion
  • •
    put ideas in someone's head — give someone unrealistic expectations

Related words

See also: concept, notion, plan, thought
Synonyms: concept, notion, plan, thought

Etymology

From Latin "idea" (a (Platonic) idea, archetype), from Greek "idea" (form, pattern, kind), from "idein" (to see), from Proto-Indo-European "*weyd-" (to see, know). In Platonic philosophy, ideas were the eternal, perfect forms of which earthly things are imperfect copies.