SKIP TO CONTENT

eidetic

/aɪˈdɛdɪk/
IPA guide

Having an eidetic memory of a dream means that you can see it in your mind so vividly that it's as though you were watching a movie. Beyond memory, the word eidetic is used to describe the essence, or perfect vision, of an object or idea.

The Greek root of eidetic is eidetikos, which means "pertaining to images." While you'll often find the adjective eidetic describing a precise recollection, like a photographic memory, it's used in philosophy and art to describe the essential vision or version of something — e.g., the "essence" of a triangle stripped of color or size. In literature, it might describe writing that evokes images in the mind's eye that are vivid and almost palpable.

Definitions of eidetic
  1. adjective
    of visual imagery of almost photographic accuracy
    synonyms:
    representational
    (used especially of art) depicting objects, figures,or scenes as seen
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘eidetic'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family