Simple Definition of opportunist

from our Learner's Dictionary

opportunist

noun

ˌɑːpɚˈtuːnɪst How to pronounce opportunist (audio)
British ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪst
plural opportunists
disapproving : someone who tries to get an advantage or something valuable from a situation without thinking about what is fair or right
Most burglars are opportunists.
a political opportunist who changed his health-care plan to win the election

Cite this Entry

“Opportunist.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/opportunist. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

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