The story has contributed to the language the word "quixotic" (foolishly impractical or idealistic) and inspired the expression "tilting at windmills" (to go after an imagined foe or a goal that cannot be reached). It has been adapted for famous artworks (by Picasso, Dali, and others), film, television, radio, opera, ballet, comic books, cartoons, and the popular stage musical Man of La Mancha.