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

Derived Forms

• superoptimistic
  adjective
• antioptimistical
  adjective
• unoptimistical
  adjective
• semioptimistic
  adjective
• antioptimistically
  adverb
• antioptimistic
  adjective
• nonoptimistically
  adverb
• preoptimistic
  adjective
• overoptimistic
  adjective
• nonoptimistical
  adjective
• optimistically
  adverb
• unoptimistically
  adverb
• nonoptimistic
  adjective
• unoptimistic
  adjective
• semioptimistically
  adverb
• overoptimistically
  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

He said the “New York financial people” who came to see him were too optimistic about how the average American sees China and the average Chinese sees America.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

“They’ve probably become if not less optimistic, at least more nervous over the last 10 days or so,” said Mark Brewer, a political science professor at the University of Maine.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

She said the consultation would also include gaming in its look at screen time and she was optimistic because there is cross-party consensus on the harms of too much screen-time for children.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Musk has been optimistic about putting data centers in space, forecasting a two- or three-year timeline.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Maybe Emma hadn’t fully understood before that there were times when Mom was only pretending to look and act and sound optimistic and cheerful?

From "The Strangers" by Margaret Peterson Haddix