daydream

1 of 2

noun

day·​dream ˈdā-ˌdrēm How to pronounce daydream (audio)
: a pleasant visionary usually wishful creation of the imagination
daydreamlike adjective

daydream

2 of 2

verb

daydreamed; daydreaming; daydreams

intransitive verb

: to have a daydream
daydreamer noun

Examples of daydream in a Sentence

Noun I drifted off in a daydream during the class. hoped that one day world peace would be a reality and not just a daydream Verb Instead of studying, he spent the afternoon daydreaming about his vacation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The maid gazes out the window, her mouth slightly open, as if lost in boredom or a daydream. Jerry Saltz, Vulture, 2 July 2025 For a home base that’s as inspiring as the journey itself, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay rises from the cliffs like something out of a coastal daydream. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Verb
McCabe, an Arsenal fan favourite known for her uncompromising playing style and effervescent off-field personality, was at the centre of much of the discussion as fans daydreamed about her reaction to it all. Katie Whyatt, New York Times, 12 July 2025 This is ideal for personal branding activities, many of which benefit from space to daydream, reflect, and explore new ideas. William Arruda, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for daydream

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1651, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1820, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of daydream was in 1651

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Cite this Entry

“Daydream.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/daydream. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

daydream

1 of 2 noun
day·​dream ˈdā-ˌdrēm How to pronounce daydream (audio)
: a dreamy sequence of usually happy or pleasant imaginings

daydream

2 of 2 verb
: to have a daydream
daydreamer noun

Medical Definition

daydream

noun
day·​dream ˈdā-ˌdrēm How to pronounce daydream (audio)
: a visionary creation of the imagination experienced while awake
especially : a gratifying reverie usually of wish fulfillment
daydream intransitive verb
daydreamer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on daydream

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