optimist

[ op-tuh-mist ]

noun

1. an optimistic person.
2. a person who holds the belief or the doctrine of optimism.

Other Words From

• anti·opti·mist noun adjective
• over·opti·mist noun
• super·opti·mist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of optimist¹

First recorded in 1760–70; from French optimiste, from Latin optim(um) ( optimum ) + French -iste -ist

Example Sentences

An optimist might say the existence of this truly nauseating PAC suggests that Trump’s allies are afraid abortion will cost him the election and they’re doing whatever they can to salvage his campaign.

From Slate

I’m also maybe a blind optimist in that it’s moving in the right direction.

From Slate

If “you’re an optimist, good things come your way. If you’re a pessimist, bad things come your way,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

As one might expect when it comes to the most important hire of his nearly 4½ years on the job, Jarmond is remaining an optimist.

From Los Angeles Times

But he’s always been an optimist, and never believed that this round of fighting would escalate into a war.

From BBC

Related Words

• dreamer
• idealist