optimism

American  

[op-tuh-miz-uhm] / ˈɒp təˌmɪz əm /

noun

1. a disposition or tendency to look on the more favorable side of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome.

   Synonyms:

   cheerfulness , hopefulness , confidence

   Antonyms:

   cynicism , pessimism

2. the belief that good ultimately predominates over evil in the world.

   Antonyms:

   cynicism , pessimism

3. the belief that goodness pervades reality.

4. the doctrine that the existing world is the best of all possible worlds.

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optimism British  

/ ˈɒptɪˌmɪzəm /

noun

1. the tendency to expect the best and see the best in all things

2. hopefulness; confidence

3. the doctrine of the ultimate triumph of good over evil

4. the philosophical doctrine that this is the best of all possible worlds

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Other Word Forms

• antioptimism noun
• optimist noun
• optimistic adjective
• optimistically adverb
• overoptimism noun

Etymology

Origin of optimism

First recorded in 1730–40; from French optimisme, from Latin optim(um) ( optimum ) + French -isme -ism

Example Sentences

It might sound strange but there was a feeling of optimism among some home fans last Saturday when they left the Principality Stadium following the 52-26 loss to New Zealand.

From BBC

Brisbane is not a city to give England some much-needed Ashes optimism.

From BBC

Global markets rose on hopes of a Federal Reserve rate cut and as investor optimism over artificial intelligence returns.

From The Wall Street Journal

“With that in mind, the gains seen in bitcoin raise optimism for a similarly positive session for US stocks despite today’s holiday closure.”

From Barron's

“With that in mind, the gains seen in bitcoin raise optimism for a similarly positive session for US stocks despite today’s holiday closure.”

From Barron's

Related Words

• anticipation
• certainty
• confidence
• elation
• enthusiasm
• expectation
• happiness
• idealism
• trust