eidolon

1. an idealized person or thing; a phantom or an image of a person.

   synonyms:phantomillusion

The word 'eidolon' comes from the Greek 'eidolon', which means 'image' or 'form'. It has its roots in the verb 'eido', meaning 'to see'.

This word is often used in literary and philosophical contexts, particularly when discussing concepts of idealization or representation.

While it is not commonly used in everyday conversation, it appears frequently in literary and academic discussions.

In the novel, the protagonist often saw her late husband as an eidolon, a perfect version of him that only existed in her memories.

Philosophers have long debated the nature of the eidolon, questioning whether it represents our true selves or merely a facade.

The artist's latest work captures the eidolon of beauty, challenging viewers to confront their own perceptions of perfection.

Eidolon is a fascinating word that encapsulates the concept of idealized images or phantoms. Originating from ancient Greek, it evokes thoughts of how we perceive and remember those we admire or love. In literature, it often represents the gap between reality and our desires, making it an intriguing term for poets and philosophers alike. So, the next time you find yourself reminiscing about a perfect moment, remember that it might just be an eidolon of your imagination!