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

Fast growth Look at the impact of this innovation mindset on California’s economy, as reflected in the calculation of gross domestic product. — Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 17 July 2026

The Future Of Visibility Is Everywhere The old SEO mindset was about being found when someone searched. — Bernard May, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

That shift requires a different management mindset than many organizations have adopted so far. — Tony Bates, Fortune, 16 July 2026

The Last Leaf, however, showcases Nelson’s current mindset — and the joys within. — Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mindset

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

Medical Definition

mindset

noun

mind·​set

variants also mind-set

ˈmīn(d)-ˌset 

: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit