optimism

noun

ˈäp-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce optimism (audio)
Definition of optimismnext
as in hopefulness
an inclination to believe in the most favorable outcome your perpetual optimism even when things look bleak

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of optimism Ted was genuinely out of his depth, the conflicts felt earned, and the show still had to persuade audiences that its relentless optimism wasn’t naïve. — Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 5 Aug. 2026 In IconArrows pointing outwards The optimism about exporting comes as China quickly went from a reclusive market to the largest global exporter of vehicles in recent years. — Michael Wayland, CNBC, 5 Aug. 2026 Her proclamation of optimism comes on the heels of her having been released in December from a brutal Belarusian prison for supporting an opposition candidate running against the country’s authoritarian leader. — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2026 In Tuesday’s press conference, Rosenthal gave more insight into Berg’s leadership style, and his unwavering optimism for MLS’ growth. — Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optimism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optimism
  1. hopefulness
  2. brightness
  3. cheerfulness
Noun
  • This learned hopefulness is because in romance novels, goals are readily attainable, multiple pathways to happiness can exist and perseverance is worthwhile.
    — Katelyn Frey, The Conversation, 10 July 2026
  • The other half is King’s reaction, memorized by fans who grew up in the hopefulness of the Rose years.
    — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026
Definition of hopefulness
Noun
  • In practice, though, adoption remains inconsistent, regulations vary by country, and many vehicles still rely on brute-force brightness rather than precision.
    — Matthew MacConnell, ArsTechnica, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The Pixel 10a has a 2,424-by-1,080-pixel display, a semi-variable refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz, and a whopping 3,000-nit brightness.
    — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of brightness
Noun
  • Positive qualities—promptness, diligence, cheerfulness—sped up your ascent through the ranks; negative ones—laziness, dissipation, late mornings—slowed it down.
    — Jake Lundberg, The Atlantic, 23 July 2026
  • How is one not enamored of the Dutch fans’ togetherness and cheerfulness, or the costumes and smiles of the Japanese fans?
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2026
Definition of cheerfulness

Browse Nearby Words

optimally
optimism
optimist
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Cite this Entry

“Optimism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optimism. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of optimism for Spanish Speakers

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