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

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

See Examples For:

optimistic

Euroz Hartleys is more optimistic than the market about Beach Energy’s dividends in FY26.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026

With the coaster slated to open in the coming days or weeks, residents aren’t optimistic for change or the sudden construction of more noise buffers.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 24, 2026

The drivers of these more optimistic growth assumptions were strong performances from the respective equity divisions but also promising signs from investment banking and wealth management.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 22, 2026

It is too soon to tell in which camp Vrancken will fall, but for the most part, Hearts fans remain cautiously optimistic.

From BBC ● Jul. 21, 2026

His father had always been optimistic, even during the most difficult times.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai