pessimistic

adjective

pes·​si·​mis·​tic ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-stik 

 also  ˌpe-zə-

: of, relating to, or characterized by pessimism : gloomy

pessimistically

ˌpe-sə-ˈmi-sti-k(ə-)lē 

 also  ˌpe-zə-

adverb

Synonyms

• hopeless
• cynical
• negative

Choose the Right Synonym for pessimistic

cynical, misanthropic, pessimistic mean deeply distrustful.

cynical implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity.

cynical about politicians' motives

misanthropic suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society.

a solitary and misanthropic artist

pessimistic implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life.

pessimistic about the future

Examples of pessimistic in a Sentence

Most doctors were pessimistic that a cure could be found.

The film gives a very pessimistic view of human nature.

He has an extremely negative and pessimistic attitude.

Recent Examples on the Web

Initial assumptions reacting to the April surge in volatility in the financial markets were broadly pessimistic. —George Calhoun, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

But the national prognostications for Miami seem especially pessimistic after last season’s 8-9 record followed four consecutive winning seasons. —Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 4 Sep. 2025

Two days after becoming aware of it, Christianson met with the police, who were pessimistic on whether the city would be able to get its money back. —David Clarey, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025

Others are pessimistic, as costs and uncertainty have risen. —Kate Rogers, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

pessimist + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pessimistic

• agonistic
• altruistic
• animistic
• aphoristic
• atheistic
• cabalistic
• calvinistic
• chauvinistic
• dualistic
• egoistic
• egotistic
• eucharistic

Kids Definition

pessimistic

adjective

pes·​si·​mis·​tic ˌpes-ə-ˈmis-tik 

: of, relating to, or marked by pessimism : gloomy

pessimistically

-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb