mindset

noun

mind·​set ˈmīn(d)-ˌset How to pronounce mindset (audio)
variants or less commonly mind-set
plural mindsets also mind-sets
1
: a mental attitude or inclination
politicians trying to determine the mindset of voters
It isn't only the freshness of the fruit that makes breakfast in California restaurants outstanding. It's an attitude, a morning mindset, a desire to start the day in a leisurely, luxurious manner.Jane and Michael Stern
2
: a fixed state of mind
His mind-set does not allow for new situations.
The German military thought they were being honorable, and this wasn't an excuse—this was their complete mindset.William Vollman

Examples of mindset in a Sentence

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.
Leaders must shift from a tech-centric mindset to a human-centric one, ensuring that AI delivers real value beyond technical achievements. Alex Goryachev, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 That focus on the small things dovetails with the mindsets of the two leads, who seem hopelessly unable to get out of their own heads. Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Mar. 2025 But can a positive mindset help alleviate these symptoms? Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025 Social media has significantly encouraged America’s consumerist mindset and micro trends only aid the inexpensiveness and readily available appeal that these fast fashion businesses have. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 11 Mar. 2025 Are those with big plans and the mindset, resources and discipline to accomplish them the only ones whose lives are worth preserving? Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 11 Mar. 2025 These garments reflect the royal family’s thrifty mindset and offer a glimpse into their childhood years. Simon Perry, People.com, 10 Mar. 2025 Challenge the hustle culture mindset and embrace the idea that rest is productive. Jasmine Browley, Essence, 9 Mar. 2025 Shift your mindset from commands to conversations and try using AI to spitball new ideas for that next big project. Alex Fitzpatrick, Axios, 9 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mindset was in 1909

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

mindset

noun
mind·​set
variants also mind-set
: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit

More from Merriam-Webster on mindset

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