mindset

noun

mind·​set ˈmīn(d)-ˌset How to pronounce mindset (audio)
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
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Your leadership mindset is showing — and your LinkedIn profile is proof. Esther K. Choy, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026 Zamata, who turned 40 on May 6, reflected on her current mindset during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the Los Angeles premiere of Masters of the Universe on Monday, May 18. Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 31 May 2026 Harbaugh echoed Winston’s proud mindset, believing his new team will be better because of the situation. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2026 Note that one’s mindset toward aging also plays a major part in that improvement. Helen Dennis, Daily News, 30 May 2026 This mindset shift helped me in a few ways. Cori Sears, The Spruce, 30 May 2026 Preservation of both is foremost in the mindset of its custodians. Lauren Keith, Robb Report, 30 May 2026 Part of that mindset shift was for her young daughter. Ayren Jackson-Cannady, SELF, 29 May 2026 The holiday mindset itself makes people more receptive to learning. Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 29 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mindset was in 1909

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Cite this Entry

“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

mindset

noun
mind·​set
variants also mind-set
: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit

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