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Which fictional work famously satirizes the philosophical idea behind the word optimistic?

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optimistic

American  

[op-tuh-mis-tik] / ˌɒp təˈmɪs tɪk /

Sometimes optimistical

adjective

1. disposed to take a favorable view of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome.

2. reflecting a favorable view of events and conditions and the expectation of a positive outcome; demonstrating optimism.

   an optimistic plan.

3. of or relating to optimism.

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Other Word Forms

• antioptimistic
  adjective
• antioptimistical
  adjective
• nonoptimistic
  adjective
• nonoptimistical
  adjective
• overoptimistic
  adjective
• preoptimistic
  adjective
• semioptimistic
  adjective
• superoptimistic
  adjective
• unoptimistic
  adjective
• unoptimistical
  adjective
• antioptimistically
  adverb
• nonoptimistically
  adverb
• optimistically
  adverb
• overoptimistically
  adverb
• semioptimistically
  adverb
• unoptimistically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of optimistic

First recorded in 1840–50; optimist + -ic

Explanation

An optimistic person thinks the best possible thing will happen, and hopes for it even if it's not likely. Someone who's a tad too confident this way is also sometimes called optimistic. If you see the glass as half-full when others see it as half-empty; if you look on the bright side of things, you're optimistic. If the chain falls off your rusty old bicycle, a tire goes flat, the frame cracks down the middle, the seat keeps twisting around, and you say, "But look! The little bell still works — I'm sure this bike will be fine," you're being very optimistic, though some might venture to call you "delusional."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

optimistic

Musk was characteristically optimistic: His goal is to make humanity a multi-planetary species.

From Barron's ● Aug. 12, 2026

While Roberts said last week that he thought the chances of Rushing catching again were “very small,” Rushing was more optimistic.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 12, 2026

A modest rebound in the shares suggests the market is buying into the optimistic view delivered by top fund managers.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 10, 2026

“We’re optimistic that new leadership can bend the curve on traffic, but remain realistic that direct competitors have also gotten noticeably sharper, and the planned initiatives will take time to bear fruit,” he wrote.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 8, 2026

It's a more optimistic thought than I usually allow myself to have.

From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse