Surreal

usgb/səˈriːəl/
adjective

Like a strange dream. It's not normal or real, but weird, fantastic and sometimes scary.

The scene after the earthquake was completely surreal, with houses turned upside down and roads swallowed by the earth.
Visual representation of "surreal" - Like a strange dream. It's not normal or real, but weird, fantastic and sometimes scary.

Often appears as...

  • surreal experience
  • surreal landscape
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "surreal"
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Unreal Quality

Describes something so unusual it seems out of this world, almost dream-like.

Illustration for Unreal Quality
The magician's performance was surreal; I couldn't believe my eyes.
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Not Negative Only

While often used in weird or unsettling contexts, 'surreal' can describe pleasantly unusual experiences too.

Illustration for Not Negative Only
Walking through the rainbow lit mist of the waterfall felt surreal.
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Unexpected Twist

Used when reality takes a surprising turn that disrupts the ordinary.

Illustration for Unexpected Twist
Seeing the horse in the school hallway was surreal.
Visual representation of the word "Surreal"

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