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 foreign policy, Yoon — who has worked closely with Washington and Tokyo to solidify security cooperation in the face of North Korean threats — expressed optimism that the three-way partnership will continue to expand under Trump’s government. Reuters, NBC News, 8 Nov. 2024 Even so, the firm expects any uncertainty will soon give way to optimism. Sarah Min, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2024 Major Asian indexes saw strong gains, fueled by optimism that China would roll out stimulus measures to support its slowing economy. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 And meeting some of the best young brains and the best solutions yesterday gives optimism that these guys and girls can change our future. Simon Perry, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near optimism

Cite this Entry

“Optimism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimism. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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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