Chimera
noun /kaɪˈmɪərə/ — An impossible dream that seems just real enough to chase.
Definition
A thing hoped for but illusory or impossible to achieve; originally a fire-breathing monster of Greek myth with a lion's head, goat's body, and serpent's tail.
Beyond the definition
The chimera is the dream you keep pursuing even though part of you suspects it doesn't exist. More precisely than 'illusion', it names a specific kind of hope that is constructed from incompatible parts — beautiful and monstrous at once, impossible but alluring.
Origin & history
From Greek Chimaira — the fire-breathing monster slain by Bellerophon, riding Pegasus. Its name meant 'she-goat' but became associated with any hybrid impossibility.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The idea of perfect work-life balance remains a chimera for most professionals.
She recognised the relationship for what it was — a chimera she had built from wishful thinking.
He spent years chasing the chimera of critical and commercial success in equal measure.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Chimera” when the meaning fits your context: A thing hoped for but illusory or impossible to achieve; originally a fire-breathing monster of Greek myth with a lion's head, goat's body, and serpent's tail.
Synonyms
illusion, fantasy, delusion, pipe dream, impossibility
Antonyms
reality, certainty, attainable goal
Related words
Word in the Wild
Illustrative story: an imagined scene, not a documented event or interview.
The business plan had been brilliant. He had believed in it completely for two years — had shown it to investors, had quit his job, had convinced three friends to join him.
Then, gradually, it became clear that the problem it solved wasn't quite real. Not that there was no problem. Just that the version of the problem in his head was more elegant than the version in the world.
He was not stupid. He had been, briefly, in love — with an idea that worked perfectly in the space where ideas are perfect, and dissolved on contact with reality. He rebuilt more carefully. But he kept the original plan. To remind him how ideas can glow.
Questions about this word
What does "Chimera" mean?
Chimera is noun meaning: An impossible dream that seems just real enough to chase.. A thing hoped for but illusory or impossible to achieve; originally a fire-breathing monster of Greek myth with a lion's head, goat's body, and serpent's tail.
Where does the word "Chimera" come from?
From Greek Chimaira — the fire-breathing monster slain by Bellerophon, riding Pegasus. Its name meant 'she-goat' but became associated with any hybrid impossibility.