Fantasize
/ˈfæn.tə.saɪz/noun
To imagine or picture something in the mind, often in a way that is unrealistic or idealized.
Did you know?English fantasy words ultimately trace back to Greek *phaínein*, “to bring to light” or “make appear,” the same root behind the idea of something becoming visible like an apparition.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰeh₂-
“to shine, appear, or bring to light”
Ancient Greek
Greek
φαίνω (phaínō)
“to bring to light, make appear, show”
Ancient Greek
Greek
φαντασία (phantasía)
“appearance, image, imagination”
Late Latin
Latin
phantasia
“a visible appearance, image, imagination”
Middle English / Old French
French
fantasie
“imagination, illusion, fancy”
Modern English
English
fantasize
“to indulge in fantasy or imagination”
Explore more surprising origins