mindset

noun

mind·​set ˈmīn(d)-ˌset How to pronounce mindset (audio)
variants or less commonly mind-set
plural mindsets also mind-sets
Synonyms of mindset
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 mindset shift has helped the Milwaukee Brewers left-hander deliver one of the great runs by any reliever in postseason history. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 Smith, who spends hours signing and searching for professional basketball and hockey players, has noticed a slight shift in their mindsets. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026 About to head into rehearsals for his upcoming play, Tarantino explained his current mindset is of being a writer first, as was put into action with opting not to direct Cliff Booth. — Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2026 Ahead of Game 4 in Atlanta, here’s what a few players have said about their mindset so far and what’s been working. — Micahya Costen, AJC.com, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mindset

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mindset was in 1909

Rhymes for mindset

See All Rhymes for mindset

Browse Nearby Words

mind reading
mindset
mindshare
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

mindset

noun
mind·​set
variants also mind-set
ˈmīn(d)-ˌset How to pronounce mindset (audio)
: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit
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