quixotic
UK: kwɪkˈsɒtɪk | US: kwɪkˈsɑːtɪk
adj. extravagantly chivalrous or romantic; idealistic to an impractical degree
adj. resembling or characteristic of the actions of Don Quixote
The word "quixotic" derives from the name of the fictional character Don Quixote, the protagonist of Miguel de Cervantes' 17th-century novel. Quixote is portrayed as a delusional nobleman who embarks on absurdly idealistic adventures, mistaking windmills for giants and inns for castles. The suffix -ic transforms the name into an adjective, describing behavior that is unrealistically romantic or foolishly impractical, mirroring Quixote's actions. The term reflects how literature can shape language by immortalizing a character's traits as a universal concept.
His quixotic quest to end poverty single-handedly was admired but ultimately ineffective.
She dismissed his quixotic plans as charming but unrealistic.
The politician’s quixotic campaign promised impossible reforms.
Their quixotic love story seemed straight out of a fairy tale.
Investing all his savings in a failing business was a quixotic gamble.