Quixote
Quixote (noun) means a person who is idealistic and chivalrous to the point of being impractical. Example: “He was a modern quixote, forever chasing hopeless causes.”
How to use Quixote
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone whose noble intentions outrun what is actually achievable.
The adjective form "quixotic" is far more common in everyday speech than this noun.
Word forms
Quixotes plural
Fill the gap
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He was a modern _____, forever chasing hopeless causes.
Etymology
Named after Don Quixote, the idealistic knight-errant hero of Miguel de Cervantes's 17th-century novel.
Rhymes for Quixote
See all rhymes for Quixote →Frequently asked questions
What does “Quixote” mean?
The word “Quixote” means a person who is idealistic and chivalrous to the point of being impractical. In plain terms, someone whose noble intentions outrun what is actually achievable.
How do you pronounce “Quixote”?
“Quixote” is pronounced KWIHK-suht (/ˈkwɪk.sət/ in IPA).
How do you use “Quixote” in a sentence?
Here is “Quixote” used in a sentence: “He was a modern quixote, forever chasing hopeless causes.”
What part of speech is “Quixote”?
“Quixote” is a noun.
Where does the word “Quixote” come from?
The word “Quixote” dates back to around 1600. Named after Don Quixote, the idealistic knight-errant hero of Miguel de Cervantes's 17th-century novel.
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Vocabulary lists that include Quixote: