The set of values, institutions, laws, and symbols common to a particular social group and the corresponding society through which people imagine their social whole.
Related
Similar words
all in one's head
Origin
From Middle French imaginaire, from Latin imāginārius ("relating to images, fancied"), from imāgō.
The mathematical sense derives from René Descartes's use (of the French imaginaire) in 1637, La Geometrie, to ridicule the notion of regarding non-real roots of polynomials as numbers. Although Descartes' usage was derogatory, the designation stuck even after the concept gained acceptance in the 18th century.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.