optimism

[op-tuh-miz-uhm] / ˈɒp təˌmɪz əm /

NOUN

state of having positive beliefs

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anticipation certainty confidence elation enthusiasm expectation happiness idealism trust

STRONG

assurance brightness buoyancy calmness cheer cheerfulness easiness encouragement exhilaration hopefulness positivism sanguineness sureness

WEAK

good cheer looking on bright side rose-colored glasses

Antonyms

STRONGEST

depression distrust doubt fear sadness sorrow uncertainty unhappiness

STRONG

discouragement gloom

WEAK

hopelessness pessimism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But 92 minutes in Manchester quickly did for any such optimism, with the number of potential trophies that might garnish Salah's farewell swiftly halved.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Few in private equity started 2026 with great optimism about their industry’s fundraising prospects.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

“Our positivism, our optimism, our hope in a better future is second to none. I think that’s what you’re seeing in those numbers, even as our community feels totally attacked.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

A key reason for his optimism is that the company’s ultrahigh-net-worth target customer owns an average of 3.7 homes, while billionaires own 10, on average.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

We made our calculations, crushing optimism whenever it arose so that we might be certain, absolutely certain.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya

optimism

Example Sentences

Related Words