optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
1
: a doctrine that this world is the best possible world
2
: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome
expressed optimism about the future of the business
the optimism of cheerleaders

Examples of optimism in a Sentence

Both of them expressed optimism about the future of the town. The early sales reports are cause for optimism. There is growing optimism that the problem can be corrected. He maintains a sense of optimism, despite all that has happened.
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.
On Tuesday, signs of that optimism finally began to appear. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025 Even among Democrats, only about a third expressed any optimism for their party. Susan Page, USA Today, 20 May 2025 The series of problems has tested the couple’s optimism. Ashley Vega, People.com, 19 May 2025 Her erratic moods and default to self-destruct impacts all of her relationships as moments of levity erupt into violence and optimism simmers to despair. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for optimism

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French optimisme, from Latin optimum "the best, optimum" + French -isme -ism

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimism was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimism. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
: a habit of expecting everything to turn out for the best

Medical Definition

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome
optimist noun
optimistic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on optimism

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