Panglossian

[ pan-glos-ee-uhn, -glaw-see-, pang- ]

/ pænˈglɒs i ən, -ˈglɔ si-, pæŋ- /

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adjective

characterized by or given to extreme optimism, especially in the face of unrelieved hardship or adversity.

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Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of Panglossian

First recorded in 1825–35; after Pangloss, an optimistic character in Voltaire's Candide; compare Greek panglossía “garrulousness, wordiness” (see pan-, glosso-, -y³); see -ian

Words nearby Panglossian

pangender, pangenesis, Pan-Germanism, Pang-fou, Pangloss, Panglossian, pangola grass, pangolin, Pango Pango, pangram, pan gravy

How to use Panglossian in a sentence

The Panglossian view of natural selection is an appealing idea to us as human beings, you argue, because brains have foresight.
Rediscovering Richard Dawkins: An Interview|J.P. O’Malley|September 23, 2013|DAILY BEAST
I know this sounds panglossian, and others have made strong arguments against such a scenario.
A Centrist Government in Israel?|Brent E. Sasley|January 18, 2013|DAILY BEAST
This is simply a Panglossian idea, policy as wishful thinking.
Why Washington Won't Prevent Another Meltdown|Jeff Madrick|October 28, 2009|DAILY BEAST
When my master adopted the Panglossian view of the universe I used no arguments that might cloud his serenity.
The Belovd Vagabond|William J. Locke