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

Trump’s party-boss mentality in North Carolina, Texas, and South Carolina has further contributed to the yawning battleground. — Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 2 Nov. 2026

That mentality has become important as the show progresses and as Levine gains more experience as a coach. — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 2 Nov. 2026

Carroll said that goal-line stand was a result of the mentality instilled upon the defense by coordinator Andy Avalos. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Nov. 2026

Until Florida can match Georgia’s talent, discipline and championship mentality, this annual showdown will remain less a rivalry than a ritual. — Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Oct. 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