opt

1 of 2

verb

ˈäpt How to pronounce opt (audio)
opted; opting; opts
Synonyms of optnext

intransitive verb

: to make a choice
especially : to decide in favor of something
… opted for a tax increase … —Tom Wicker
After perusing the menu he opted for the prime rib.

opt

2 of 2

abbreviation

1
optical; optician; optics
2
option; optional

Synonyms of opt

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Verb

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Examples of opt in a Sentence

Verb after that near catastrophe, they opted to reinstate the telephone service
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.
Verb
The family opted instead for a grill and small fridge, with a wood counter built around it to give a cohesive look. — Rory Evans, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 July 2026 While some restaurants have opted to close or adjust hours, Helka says that isn't an option. — Veronica Ortega, CBS News, 1 July 2026 Of course, no royal's look wouldn't be complete without some stunning sparkle—and the twins opted for pieces with special significance. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 1 July 2026 According to a league source, the Heat opted to move on from Powell and didn’t push to try to create more room under the first apron to re-sign him. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for opt

Word History

Etymology

Verb

French opter, from Latin optare

First Known Use

Verb

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opt was in 1853

Phrases Containing opt

Rhymes for opt

See All Rhymes for opt

Browse Nearby Words

-opsy
opt
optable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

opt

verb
ˈäpt
: to make a choice

Medical Definition

opt

abbreviation
optician

More from Merriam-Webster on opt

Nglish: Translation of opt for Spanish Speakers

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