optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm 

1

: a doctrine that this world is the best possible world

2

: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome

expressed optimism about the future of the business

the optimism of cheerleaders

Synonyms

• hopefulness
• brightness
• cheerfulness

Examples of optimism in a Sentence

Both of them expressed optimism about the future of the town.

The early sales reports are cause for optimism.

There is growing optimism that the problem can be corrected.

He maintains a sense of optimism, despite all that has happened.

Recent Examples on the Web

Confirming actions in military conflicts (especially recent/ongoing ones) is difficult due to prevailing confusion, optimism bias regarding own-side performance, and propaganda aimed at influencing public perceptions. —Sebastien Roblin, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

The broad sell-off on Friday marks an abrupt reversal from Wall Street's optimism this summer. —Rafael Nam, NPR, 1 Aug. 2025

Gregg Evans Analysis: Newcastle’s optimism is ebbing but Isak exit will not be straightforward There has always been an understanding at this new version of Newcastle that selling good players was part of the business plan. —David Ornstein, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2025

For now, however, optimism should reign supreme in Hornetsland. —Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French optimisme, from Latin optimum "the best, optimum" + French -isme -ism

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for optimism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism

Kids Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: a habit of expecting everything to turn out for the best

Medical Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome

optimist

-məst 

noun

optimistic

ˌäp-tə-ˈmis-tik 

adjective