optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
Synonyms of optimismnext
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To get past these challenging emotions, use your nostalgia and aim for gratitude and optimism. Sherri Gordon, Health, 12 Dec. 2025 Despite Syria's widespread poverty, even those struggling economically retain a sense of optimism. Jane Arraf, NPR, 12 Dec. 2025 With all of the quality projects that came out within the past 12 months, there’s plenty of optimism on the music front for next year. Okla Jones, Essence, 12 Dec. 2025 Disney's deal is also a coup for OpenAI amid a tumultuous time for the stock market, as some worry that AI investment and optimism may lead to a bubble reminiscent of the 1990s dot-com boom. Mike Snider, USA Today, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for optimism

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French optimisme, from Latin optimum "the best, optimum" + French -isme -ism

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimism was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimism. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
: a habit of expecting everything to turn out for the best

Medical Definition

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome
optimist noun
optimistic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on optimism

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