optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm 

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

Synonyms

• bullishness
• sanguinity

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

After multiple meetings with Hegseth throughout December, including two within the past week, Ernst expressed cautious optimism while stopping short of committing her support according to posts on X, formerly Twitter. —Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024

But despite optimism that quantum computing could one day change the world — or at least computers’ role in it — experts in the field have suggested that Google’s quantum computing breakthrough is still lacking in real-world uses. —Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 10 Dec. 2024

Although the gathering of industry icons from across the country was still stellar, there was a palpable sense of optimism. —Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 9 Dec. 2024

While the 2024 season has been a largely forgettable one for the Raiders, Bowers has offered a ray of optimism. —Ben Morse, CNN, 9 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: a habit of expecting everything to turn out for the best

Medical Definition

optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm 

: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome

optimist

-məst 

noun

optimistic

ˌäp-tə-ˈmis-tik 

adjective