optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm 

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

Synonyms of optimism

• hopefulness
• brightness
• cheerfulness

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

Even so, the new regime has expressed optimism about aiding the potential of Pluto, which had been largely neglected for the previous couple of years. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 21 Sep. 2026

O’Donnell’s characters are usually fresh out of divorces and staying afloat on waves of delusional self-confidence and optimism. — Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 21 Sep. 2026

For the Daltons and Mattesons, who watched optimism slip into grief after their children endured brutal battles against cancer, the fight now is about getting more information. — Julia Vargas Jones, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2026

All of the Bears fans at the soggy tailgate are full of optimism for a team coming off a playoff season. — Marissa Sulek, CBS News, 20 Sep. 2026

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

Rhymes for optimism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• sophism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism

Kids Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: a habit of expecting everything to turn out for the best

Medical Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome

optimist

-məst 

noun

optimistic

ˌäp-tə-ˈmis-tik 

adjective