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

“Demography,” these left-wing optimists liked to say, “is destiny.”

From BBC

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

He also described himself as a "bit of an optimist".

From BBC

But in spite of her dramatic health battle, she remains an optimist.

From BBC

Related Words

• dreamer
• idealist