optimism

[ op-tuh-miz-uhm ]
/ ˈɒp təˌmɪz əm /

noun

a disposition or tendency to look on the more favorable side of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome.
the belief that good ultimately predominates over evil in the world.
the belief that goodness pervades reality.
the doctrine that the existing world is the best of all possible worlds.

Origin of optimism

1730–40; < French optimisme < Latin optim(um) (see optimum) + French -isme -ism

SYNONYMS FOR optimism

1 confidence, hopefulness, cheerfulness.

ANTONYMS FOR optimism

1, 2 pessimism, cynicism.

OTHER WORDS FROM optimism

an·ti·op·ti·mism, noun o·ver·op·ti·mism, noun

Words nearby optimism

opticokinetic nystagmus, opticopupillary, optics, optimal, optime, optimism, optimist, optimistic, optimization, optimize, optimum

Example sentences from the Web for overoptimism

British Dictionary definitions for overoptimism (1 of 2)

overoptimism
/ (ˌəʊvərˈɒptɪˌmɪzəm) /

noun

excessive hopefulness or confidence

British Dictionary definitions for overoptimism (2 of 2)

optimism
/ (ˈɒptɪˌmɪzəm) /

noun

the tendency to expect the best and see the best in all things
hopefulness; confidence
the doctrine of the ultimate triumph of good over evil
the philosophical doctrine that this is the best of all possible worlds
Compare pessimism

Derived forms of optimism

optimist, noun optimistic or optimistical, adjective optimistically, adverb

Word Origin for optimism

C18: from French optimisme, from Latin optimus best, superlative of bonus good