mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈta-lə-tē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power or capacity : intelligence

2

: mode or way of thought : outlook

… the imperialist mentality of the nineteenth century.

—John Davies

Synonyms of mentality

• sense
• intelligence
• intellect
• reason

Examples of mentality in a Sentence

most teenagers do not have the mentality to foresee the consequences of such risky behavior

Recent Examples on the Web

The win over Mexico was a massive test of will and mentality. — Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 11 July 2026

Real insight from your audience is what will drive innovation and expansion in your company, and the mentality must be centered around their pain points and how your company’s service or product can serve them effectively. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

That’s the mind-set, the mentality the Dolphins need in 2026 if this team plans to charter a new course for this franchise. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 10 July 2026

Success starts with team-first mentality For veteran summer league player Sion James, the habits the Hornets are trying to establish go beyond basketball strategy. — Amari Riley, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing mentality

• bunker mentality
• herd mentality
• siege mentality
• victim mentality

Rhymes for mentality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• finality
• formality
• frugality
• legality

Kids Definition

mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power : intelligence

2

: a particular way of thinking : outlook

Medical Definition

mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power or capacity

2

: mode or way of thought