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

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

Friday’s dour mood gave way to new hope and optimism today.

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But with consumers continuing to spend, in the aggregate, and uncertainty around trade policy starting to fade, there is more optimism that the U.S. economic engine will keep powering ahead.

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Despite Friday’s drop, Alibaba U.S.-shares have gained nearly 88% so far this year coming into Monday trading, much due to optimism around its work on AI.

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Any optimism that 38-year-old Fatima Salem might have felt when Israeli forces withdrew from her neighbourhood in Gaza City was shattered when she returned home to find it gone.

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Several humanitarian sources expressed optimism, despite concerns about security and registration procedures, on which Israel has yet to provide guidance.

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Related Words

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