optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism | \ ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio) \

Definition of optimism

1 : a doctrine that this world is the best possible world
2 : an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome expressed optimism about the future of the business the optimism of cheerleaders

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Synonyms & Antonyms for optimism

Synonyms

bullishness, sanguinity

Antonyms

bearishness, pessimism

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Examples of optimism in a Sentence

Both of them expressed optimism about the future of the town. The early sales reports are cause for optimism. There is growing optimism that the problem can be corrected. He maintains a sense of optimism, despite all that has happened.
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Recent Examples on the Web

Starter Rick Porcello entered the second and final game of this series with 5.49 ERA that was actually lower than that of Phillies starter Drew Smyly (7.09) and provided reason for cautious optimism early, pitching four scoreless innings. Chad Finn, BostonGlobe.com, "Rick Porcello struggles, Red Sox tumble again to Phillies," 21 Aug. 2019 IU’s coach has reasons for optimism on both sides of the ball, after consecutive 5-7 seasons, but the Hoosiers also have important questions to address. Zach Osterman, Indianapolis Star, "Insider: Breaking down IU football's special teams," 1 Aug. 2019 One cause for optimism is the return of Sal Sunseri to help coach the Alabama linebackers. Creg Stephenson | Cstephenson@al.com, al, "AL.com All-Access: How concerned are you about Alabama’s depth on defense?," 30 July 2019 Get our daily newsletter Geography, history, political culture, the electoral system, the structure of the economy and the welfare state all argue for optimism. The Economist, "Looking aheadThe election in October will be a test of Canada’s liberal values," 25 July 2019 But as desperate as the situation currently looks, there is some cause for optimism. Peter Schwartzstein, National Geographic, "Iraq races to save last of Middle East's forests from burning," 22 July 2019 The reason for optimism: Johnson's a legit athlete who some schools probably looked at and had no idea what to do with him. Nick Baumgardner, Detroit Free Press, "Michigan football: George Johnson III could be a pass-throwing wildcard WR," 16 July 2019 One reason for optimism: The downfield passing attack might arrive with the return of DeSean Jackson, who led the NFL last year with 18.9 yards per catch. Michael Middlehurst-schwartz, USA TODAY, "50 things to know about NFL teams' training camps in 2019," 15 July 2019 The doubters might have a point, but when breaking down the Cardinals at wide receiver and tight end and examining the talent and potential a little closer, there is reason for optimism just as well. Bob Mcmanaman, azcentral, "Arizona Cardinals scouting report: Wide receivers and tight ends," 8 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'optimism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of optimism

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for optimism

borrowed from French optimisme, from Latin optimum "the best, optimum" + French -isme -ism

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More Definitions for optimism

optimism

noun

English Language Learners Definition of optimism

: a feeling or belief that good things will happen in the future : a feeling or belief that what you hope for will happen

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism | \ ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio) \

Kids Definition of optimism

: a feeling or belief that good things will happen

optimism

noun
op·​ti·​mism | \ ˈäp-tə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce optimism (audio) \

Medical Definition of optimism

: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome

Other Words from optimism

optimist \ -​məst How to pronounce optimist (audio) \ noun
optimistic \ ˌäp-​tə-​ˈmis-​tik How to pronounce optimistic (audio) \ adjective

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