thing conceived as embodying such a conception or conforming to such a standard, and taken as a model for imitation: conceived as constituting a standard of perfection or excellence something considered as a standard to strive toward or something considered worthy of imitation. An ideal is a concept or standard of perfection, existing merely as an image in the mind, or based upon a person or upon conduct: We admire the high ideals of a religious person. Sir Philip Sidney was considered the ideal in gentlemanly conduct.