optimism

noun

op·ti·mism | \ ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm

Definition of optimism

1 : a doctrine that this world is the best possible world

2 : an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome expressed optimism about the future of the business the optimism of cheerleaders

Other Words from optimism Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about optimism

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Synonyms & Antonyms for optimism

Synonyms

bullishness, sanguinity

Antonyms

bearishness, pessimism

Examples of optimism in a Sentence

Both of them expressed optimism about the future of the town. The early sales reports are cause for optimism. There is growing optimism that the problem can be corrected. He maintains a sense of optimism, despite all that has happened.

Recent Examples on the Web

The rise has been driven by the end of threatened U.S. tariffs on Mexican imports, alongside optimism that the Federal Reserve will soon lower interest rates.... — Amrith Ramkumar, WSJ, "Tech’s Best Stretch Since 2011 Rejuvenates Market Rally," 11 June 2019 There’s optimism this nerve problem can be treated and won’t be a consistent problem. — Brody Miller, nola.com, "LSU freshman Cole Henry left super regional with nerve issue, expected to be ready by fall," 11 June 2019 Before answering shareholder questions, Musk provided a reason for optimism by predicting Tesla would set manufacturing and sales records in the current quarter ending at the end of this month. — Michael Liedtke, The Mercury News, "Tesla CEO lifts shareholder spirits, takes aim at media," 11 June 2019 If there has ever been a historical moment apt to foster optimism of the intellect, right now would not appear to be it. — Lidija Haas, Harper's magazine, "New Books," 10 June 2019 Teams drafting college players early to save for over-slot signing bonuses for high school kids late offers some optimism. — Anthony Fenech, Detroit Free Press, "Why the top high school player in Michigan went undrafted," 9 June 2019 But the heady optimism created by Mr. al-Bashir’s downfall gave way to new tensions, as the generals resisted protester demands for a swift transition to civilian rule. — Declan Walsh, New York Times, "Sudan Protesters, Devastated but Defiant, Regroup Underground After Crackdown," 9 June 2019 Conditions were perfect for Wednesday night’s season-opening game at Palmer’s Hermon Brothers Field: a warm evening, a beautiful ballpark and the optimism that accompanies the first pitch of any season. — Beth Bragg, Anchorage Daily News, "Batter up: Alaska Baseball League opens a new season," 7 June 2019 Despite Reagan’s optimism about the glorious future of space capitalism, the market wasn’t ready to support his plans. — Daniel Oberhaus, WIRED, "NASA Went to the Stock Exchange to Try to Sell the ISS," 7 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'optimism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.