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 of pessimistic

• 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

Along with her equally intellectual and sardonic (some may even say pessimistic) best friend Jane, Daria provided a terrifically entertaining rebuke to late ’90s and early aughts culture. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Sep. 2026

If Lex seems pessimistic about the Eagles, Josh is pushing back against any skepticism. — Zach Berman, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Eloy Alfaro de Alba, Panama’s representative, sounded a pessimistic note. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 28 Aug. 2026

But multiple polls this month have shown Americans feel pessimistic about the war and their economic troubles. — Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

pessimist + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pessimistic

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

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