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

Other Word Forms

• antioptimism noun
• overoptimism noun
• optimist noun
• optimistically adverb
• optimistic adjective

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

Angel City veteran and New Zealand World Cup standout Ali Riley is retiring with gratitude for her success and optimism about her future.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

What keeps him going, he says, isn’t optimism so much as duty.

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But in France, that optimism appears to be wilting.

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"Don't get carried away by optimism," Gaza resident Ibrahim Fares told the BBC.

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"Don't get carried away by optimism. There will be rounds of talks over the details. The devil is always in the detail," he said.

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Related Words

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