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.

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

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

Standing inside her store, surrounded by pastel ballgowns decorated with lace and rhinestones, Leonor felt optimistic.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

With regards to current warning flags, they said valuations across several segments of the market are looking stretched, and investor sentiment is increasingly optimistic.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

"There's a lot of mystery and things that are undisclosed but I've become more optimistic that people are going to be able to discover things that we have not been allowed to discover."

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Nothing prevents other auto makers with excess battery capacity due to overly optimistic EV forecasts from doing something similar, though.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Their mother belonged to a Women’s Communications Club—women of different backgrounds writing letters to editors and sharing optimistic ideas.

From "Habibi" by Naomi Shihab Nye