Is a character in your novel particularly imaginative? The 10 words we’ve included below will help you to write this character. Read on to learn how to describe imagination in a story.
1. Whimsical
Definition
Playfully quaint or fanciful.
Examples
“In the whimsical realm of a child’s imagination, colorful dragons soar through cotton candy clouds, and talking trees whisper secrets of far-off lands.”
“The artist’s brush danced across the canvas, bringing to life a whimsical imaginary world where islands served as playgrounds for surreal creatures that defied the laws of nature.”
How it Adds Description
Incorporate the term “whimsical” to describe a character’s imagination to imply that they have a fanciful nature. A whimsical character may pursue creative and unpredictable actions that provide twists and turns to the plot. Such an imagination will add charm and foster a unique connection with your readers.
2. Visionary
Definition
Having the ability to conceive innovative ideas.
Examples
“The young artist’s visionary imagination resulted in art that transported viewers to fantastical realms of vibrant colors and otherworldly creatures.
“Her visionary imagination led her to write a fascinating story about a utopian society where technological advancements and human compassion merged to create a harmonious future.”
How it Adds Description
By labeling a character as “visionary,” you imply that they think beyond the ordinary to find bold and innovative solutions. You can use this description to evoke feelings of hope and admiration from readers. A visionary nature might lead them to envision pivotal events, shape the narrative’s trajectory and inspire others.
3. Unconventional
Definition
Characterized by originality and innovation.
Examples
“Maria’s inventive imagination led her to create a fantasy world where unicorns soared through cotton candy clouds and talking trees shared ancient wisdom with passersby.”
“The children’s book was praised for its inventive storytelling, weaving together a mesmerizing tale of time-travelers, aliens and a magical portal hidden within an enchanted forest.”
How it Adds Description
By using the word “unconventional” to describe imagination, you imbue your character with a unique way of thinking. Use this term to pave the way to moments of brilliance or foment misunderstandings. Your character’s quirky nature or their taking actions that are out of sync with the norm accepted by other people may lead them to feel isolated.
4. Fantastical
Definition
Characterized by the presence of extraordinary elements.
Examples
“As she closed her eyes, her mind transformed into a fantastical realm where talking trees whispered ancient secrets.”
“The author’s fantastical storytelling took the readers on a journey through magical landscapes that stretched the limits of human imagination.”
How it Adds Description
Using “fantastical” to describe a character’s imagination can be used to fuel their actions with daring creativity, making them feel liberated and adventurous. They may concoct ingenious solutions to challenges or be driven to explore uncharted territories. Either of these may take your character on a journey full of interesting twists and turns.
5. Inventive
Definition
Having a resourceful and creative mind.
Examples
“Emily’s inventive imagination knew no bounds as she conjured up a whimsical world that left her friends in awe of her creative storytelling.”
“As a child, Alex’s inventive imagination turned ordinary household objects into extraordinary inventions, transforming cardboard boxes into rocket ships and kitchen utensils into fantastical gadgets.”
How it Adds Description
By describing the character’s imagination as “inventive,” you are pushing them to tackle challenges in pioneering ways. Their inventive nature will become crucial to your plot, leading them to uncover hidden truths, overcome obstacles, and inspire others around them. It elevates their role from ordinary to extraordinary, captivating readers with their creative prowess.
6. Whirlwind
Definition
Marked by a chaotic flow of imaginative ideas.
Examples
“Her whirlwind imagination led to a plethora of creative projects, leaving those around her amazed and inspired.”
“The mad scientist’s mind was a whirlwind of possibilities, racing from one concept to another.”
How it Adds Description
The word “whirlwind” implies that your character has a tendency to lose touch with reality. This trait might make them adventurous, unpredictable, and drive them towards unexpected choices. The character’s imaginative whirlwind shapes their journey, creating thrilling and unpredictable twists in your story.
7. Playful
Definition
Exhibiting a mischievous imagination.
Examples
“With a playful imagination, the children turned the backyard into a magical kingdom, complete with invisible dragons.”
“Young Timmy transformed his cardboard box fort into a daring spaceship, using his playful imagination to battle aliens with his loyal band of stuffed animal companions.”
How it Adds Description
Use “playful” to infuse your character’s imagination with a sense of whimsy and joy, adding depth to their personality. Their playful nature may lead to adventurous choices and creative problem-solving, engaging readers with their lighthearted approach to challenges. This trait can also evoke empathy, forcing connections with other characters in your story.
8. Abstract
Definition
Dealing with theoretical ideas not based on concrete reality.
Examples
“Imagination takes us on an abstract journey through realms where the boundaries of reality blur, allowing us to conjure extraordinary worlds that exist solely in our minds.”
“In the abstract landscapes of imagination, the rules of physics and logic cease to hold sway, enabling us to construct scenarios that challenge the constraints of our everyday existence.”
How it Adds Description
By attributing “abstract” to a character’s imagination, you amplify their creativity and add depth to their psyche. It can lead to bolder actions as they dare to explore the intangible. Emotionally, it instills a sense of wonder and mystery. Their abstract nature can act as a catalyst for pivotal plot moments.
9. Hyperreal
Definition
Imaginative creations that are intensely vivid and realistic.
Examples
“As Sarah delved deeper into her hyperreal imagination, fantastical landscapes materialized before her, each more vibrant and surreal than the last.”
“In the realm of hyperreal imagination, time seemed to dance and stretch, enabling Max to relive cherished memories with such vividness that they became almost tangible.”
How it Adds Description
Employing the term “hyperreal” to describe a character’s imagination provides fuel for their motivation and alters their emotional state. You can use this to blur the lines between the actual events and their hyperreal experiences, leading to intriguing plot twists and a deep exploration of the character’s psyche.
10. Unbounded
Definition
Not limited or confined, characterized by limitless possibilities.
Examples
“Her unbounded imagination allowed her to envision a world without boundaries, where dreams became reality.”
“The writer’s unbounded creativity knew no limits, leading to the creation of expansive and diverse universes.”
How it Adds Description
By bestowing the term “unbounded” on your character’s imagination, you grant them the gift of limitless creative potential. This boundless imagination could propel them to take bold risks, pursue grand ventures, and overcome any obstacle. Their actions become daring and inventive.