optimism

noun

op·​ti·​mism ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
Synonyms of optimism
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 of optimism

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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.
There has been a resurgence of optimism from a surprising source. — Jamie Timson, TheWeek, 3 July 2026 Feelings from optimism to selfishness to lust are all neatly captured with song and dance. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2026 The good news is that a strong sense of optimism can be nurtured over time through intentional habits, perspective shifts and daily practices. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 That instinct to lean into life with curiosity, optimism, and kindness is, perhaps, America's greatest attraction. — Divia Thani, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026 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

Rhymes for optimism

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Browse Nearby Words

optimisation
optimism
optimist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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
-məst How to pronounce optimism (audio)
noun
optimistic
ˌäp-tə-ˈmis-tik How to pronounce optimism (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on optimism

Nglish: Translation of optimism for Spanish Speakers

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