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.
The style had been around since at least the ‘80s, and back then, it was firmly planted in our cultural mindset as a garment reserved solely for mothers. Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 14 Feb. 2025 As the moon meets Jupiter, this mindset is optimistic at best and irresponsible at worst. USA TODAY, 13 Feb. 2025 No bureaucracy—just sharp minds, strong bodies, and a mission-first mindset. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025 Listening to what the members of the focus group say about their experiences with the company and its products and their perception of the business can help the business gauge the effectiveness of the messaging and gain insight into consumers’ mindsets. Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 11 Feb. 2025 This jives with the ballerina’s belief that her art form is about mindset as much as physical exertion. Guillermo Perez, Miami Herald, 11 Feb. 2025 In addition to an outdoor mindset, Revelstoke has an impressive art scene. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2025 Lately, she’s embraced a freer mindset that’s less confining and restricted, incorporating waves that frame her face and shoulders beautifully. Darralynn Hutson, Essence, 10 Feb. 2025 Commit to Lifelong Learning A true success mindset requires continuous learning. Stephen Nalley, Rolling Stone, 4 Feb. 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

Dictionary Entries Near mindset

Cite this Entry

“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

mindset

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

More from Merriam-Webster on mindset

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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