Trivia Time

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

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Etymology

Origin of optimistic

First recorded in 1840–50; optimist + -ic

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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

Polls have long shown we’re among the most optimistic of Americans.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2026

Like Susanto, Mortonson is optimistic on Micron’s long-term agreements with customers that allow it “tremendous visibility” through 2029.

From MarketWatch ● Nov. 6, 2026

Powell McCormick said Meta is more optimistic about expanding existing data centers and is considering building outside the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 5, 2026

Vice President JD Vance separately said that both he and the president were optimistic about securing an agreement.

From Barron's ● Nov. 3, 2026

Bongo thinks I’m too optimistic for such an old tree.

From "Wishtree" by Katherine Applegate

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