Synonyms

mindset

American

[mahynd-set] / ˈmaɪndˌsɛt /

Or mind-set

noun

a fixed attitude, disposition, or mood.

His conservative mindset sometimes causes him to miss out on important opportunities.
Her judgmental mindset has cost her a number of friendships.
an intention or inclination.

I'm not sure what her mindset will be when you ask her about her plans.

Etymology

Origin of mindset

First recorded in 1905–10; mind ( def. ) + set ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does mindset compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

mentality vs. mindset

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I just think her professor mindset was triggered by some of Wang’s answers.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Once you’re in that mindset, you can better embrace the experience.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Four dollars for a gallon of gasoline is a critical threshold for consumers’ mindset, according to fuel-industry experts.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 28, 2026

Brittin's backers say it is a good mindset shift for the BBC to have a leader who doesn't see big tech as an enemy.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

Overkill was part of the same mindset, Denny told me.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023