mindset

noun

mind·​set ˈmīn(d)-ˌset 

variants or less commonly mind-set

plural mindsets also mind-sets

1

: a mental attitude or inclination

politicians trying to determine the mindset of voters

It isn't only the freshness of the fruit that makes breakfast in California restaurants outstanding. It's an attitude, a morning mindset, a desire to start the day in a leisurely, luxurious manner.

—Jane and Michael Stern

2

: a fixed state of mind

His mind-set does not allow for new situations.

The German military thought they were being honorable, and this wasn't an excuse—this was their complete mindset.

—William Vollman

Examples of mindset in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That simple adjustment represents a profound shift in mindset. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025

Empathy, attention to detail, creativity and a people first mindset. —Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

That mindset carries throughout. —Keith Flanagan, Architectural Digest, 11 Sep. 2025

That anti-bullying mindset has followed him throughout his career. —Otto Rabe, Cincinnati Enquirer, 11 Sep. 2025

Going into it with the right mindset. —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 11 Sep. 2025

This mindset creates a culture where risk isn’t feared. —Rchin Bari, Boston Herald, 10 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mindset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• brevet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Medical Definition

mindset

noun

mind·​set

variants also mind-set

ˈmīn(d)-ˌset 

: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit