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

"Fortunately, the scientific community is already showing a greater focus on optimism and visions of the future, which helps to inspire and motivate people."

From Science Daily

Villa’s defensive record is a reason for optimism.

From BBC

The director says, “We called it an ‘engineered optimism.’

From Los Angeles Times

Four years later, at an unusual moment of national optimism, a whopping 62 percent expressed satisfaction—but George W. Bush beat incumbent Vice President Al Gore anyway.

From Salon

But a tough opening to his tenure, which included two heavy defeats by Belgium and four-goal loss in Russia, quelled optimism.

From BBC

Related Words

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