pessimistic

adjective

pes·​si·​mis·​tic ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-stik 

 also  ˌpe-zə-

: of, relating to, or characterized by pessimism : gloomy

pessimistically

ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-sti-k(ə-)lē 

 also  ˌpe-zə-

adverb

Synonyms

• bearish
• defeatist
• despairing
• downbeat
• hopeless

Choose the Right Synonym for pessimistic

cynical, misanthropic, pessimistic mean deeply distrustful.

cynical implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity.

cynical about politicians' motives

misanthropic suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society.

a solitary and misanthropic artist

pessimistic implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life.

pessimistic about the future

Examples of pessimistic in a Sentence

Most doctors were pessimistic that a cure could be found.

The film gives a very pessimistic view of human nature.

He has an extremely negative and pessimistic attitude.

Recent Examples on the Web

This book is the first serious effort to understand how that norm evolved into a treaty… The Limits of Humanitarian Intervention: Genocide in Rwanda A succinct, pessimistic analysis of a horrifying episode in recent international politics. —Gail M. Gerhart, Foreign Affairs, 10 June 2024

Several have left meetings in the Mile High City feeling pessimistic about their chances of reclaiming important relics. —Sam Tabachnik, The Denver Post, 10 June 2024

Look, even the most pessimistic projections didn’t have Keith and Torkelson going a quarter of the season with just one home run between them — or that home run coming on May 12. —Ryan Ford, Detroit Free Press, 13 May 2024

Of all of the people in this aristocratic class, Saeki seems like the one who’s the most pessimistic about his situation. —Bethy Squires, Vulture, 17 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

pessimist + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pessimistic

adjective

pes·​si·​mis·​tic ˌpes-ə-ˈmis-tik 

: of, relating to, or marked by pessimism : gloomy

pessimistically

-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb