optimism

American  

[op-tuh-miz-uhm] / ˈɒp təˌmɪz əm /

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.

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optimism British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of optimism

First recorded in 1730–40; from French optimisme, from Latin optim(um) ( optimum ) + French -isme -ism

Example Sentences

My role there is to bring optimism and a reality of where we are.

From BBC

After the dot-com bubble burst in 2000, regulators’ investigations into Wall Street analysts revealed an industry culture of unbridled optimism, unmoored by facts.

From Barron's

The changes are cause for optimism for many in a country battling economic collapse and mass emigration.

From Barron's

Grantham identifies a paradox where late 2021 showed signs of a historic bubble, followed by a market recovery fueled by AI optimism.

From Barron's

Grantham identifies a paradox where late 2021 showed signs of a historic bubble, followed by a market recovery fueled by AI optimism.

From Barron's

Related Words

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