Quixotic

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /kwɪkˈsÉ’tɪk/
• US IPA: /kwɪkˈsÉ‘tɪk/, /kwɪɡˈzÉ‘tɪk/
• Rhymes: -É’tɪk

Origin

The surname of Don Quixote, the titular character in the novel by ,

+ -ic

Full definition of quixotic

Adjective

1. Possessing or acting with the desire to do noble and romantic deeds, without thought of realism and practicality; exceedingly idealistic.
2. Impulsive.
3. Like Don Quixote; romantic to extravagance; absurdly chivalric; apt to be deluded.

Usage notes

Although the term is derived from the name of the character Don Quixote, the letters qu and x are both read as is usual for English spelling ( and ). In "Don Quixote", by contrast, the pronunciation more closely resembles the modern Spanish ( and ).

Derived terms

• quixotically