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

Until that point, households will continue to experience declines in net worth, which isn’t conducive to more optimistic retail spending.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 16, 2026

“We’re still cautiously optimistic, but nowhere near what it was three, four years ago. We’re just not in that mindset at this point,” said Doug Roberts, president of North American development at Panattoni.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026

"I'd used sports psychologists before and always tried to be positive and optimistic, but I started working with someone at Wigan who hadn't worked in football before," said Keane.

From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2026

“Our momentum is accelerating, and I’ve never been more optimistic about the growth ahead,” said Fink.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 15, 2026

As always, the Dutch program was uplifting without being too optimistic.

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank