Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Quixotism

Quixotism (kwiks"ot*iz'm) , noun

That form of delusion which leads to extravagant and absurd undertakings or sacrifices in obedience to a morbidly romantic ideal of duty or honor, as illustrated by the exploits of Don Quixote in knight-errantry. See quixotic.