opt

1 of 2

verb

opted; opting; opts

intransitive verb

: to make a choice
especially : to decide in favor of something
opted for a tax increase Tom Wicker
After perusing the menu he opted for the prime rib.

opt

2 of 2

abbreviation

1
optical; optician; optics
2
option; optional

Examples of opt in a Sentence

Verb after that near catastrophe, they opted to reinstate the telephone service
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.
Verb
Johansson opted for the quiet luxury trend for her appearance on the Sirius XM show. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 26 June 2025 That means Oliveira cannot opt to strike in range against Topuria, who is a powerful striker with good footwork and finishing skills. Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 As far as handy gadgets, opt for the Amazon Fire TV Stick that’s marked down to $25 thanks to a half-off deal. Isabel Garcia, People.com, 26 June 2025 Many patrons opt for more than just a spin in a simulator. Marco Della Cava, USA Today, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for opt

Word History

Etymology

Verb

French opter, from Latin optare

First Known Use

Verb

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opt was in 1853

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Opt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opt. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

opt

verb
ˈäpt
: to make a choice

Medical Definition

opt

abbreviation
optician

More from Merriam-Webster on opt

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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