optimism

[ op-tuh-miz-uhm ]

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.

optimism

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˈoptimist, noun
• ˌoptiˈmistically, adverb
• ˌoptiˈmistic, adjective

Other Words From

• anti·opti·mism noun
• over·opti·mism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of optimism¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of optimism¹

C18: from French optimisme, from Latin optimus best, superlative of bonus good

Example Sentences

She says: “I have real optimism that we will come through this period of time to a much better place as a society. What I don't have optimism about is that this is a quick fix.”

From BBC

But I take some solace and optimism in the initial pushback from state and local officials who are preparing their resistance.

From Salon

Despite their optimism, there are only a handful of female fighters whose contests generate life-changing money, and their earnings are not reflected on a global scale.

From BBC

Canter heads into the final lap of the DP World Tour season this week with plenty of optimism.

From BBC

So today, with an Arab and Islamic summit calling for an end to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, there is both optimism and a degree of uncertainty about what a second Trump presidency will mean for the Middle East.

From BBC

Related Words

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