optimist

American  

[op-tuh-mist] / ˈɒp tə mɪst /

noun

1. an optimistic person.

2. a person who holds the belief or the doctrine of optimism.

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Other Word Forms

• antioptimist noun
• overoptimist noun
• superoptimist noun

Etymology

Origin of optimist

First recorded in 1760–70; from French optimiste, from Latin optim(um) ( optimum ) + French -iste -ist

Explanation

An optimist is someone who always sees the bright side of any situation — a trait that can be either encouraging or annoying, depending on your frame of mind. Winston Churchill once said, “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” When you think about the problems in the world, it might sometimes be difficult to remain an optimist. Yet some people just naturally look for the silver lining, like Eeyore in the Winnie the Pooh stories who, when admitting that it's still snowing and freezing, remarks, "However, we haven't had an earthquake lately." Now that's an optimist!

Example Sentences

Whether you are an A.I. optimist or pessimist, you’d ideally agree that few industries have ever screamed out more for intense scrutiny at a particular moment than generative A.I. does right now.

From Slate • Apr. 7, 2026

He calls himself an AI optimist, citing numerous studies showing that artificial intelligence can help doctors treat patients more effectively and even to improve their bedside manners.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

While accepting the inaugural award for best podcast at last Sunday’s Golden Globes, Amy Poehler — perennial optimist and the mind behind some of contemporary culture’s most feel-good media — made a rare off-color joke.

From Salon • Jan. 16, 2026

The firm isn’t the only optimist when it comes to next year.

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

I said, “Mr. Mahaltra, are you an optimist or a pessimist?”

From "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" by Jonathan Safran Foer

Related Words

• dreamer
• idealist