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 Okay, Chris, well, thank you so much for breaking this down for us, for giving us the straight facts, and also for leaving us with some of your optimism. — Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 26 Aug. 2026 But a favorable political environment and strong polling numbers are fueling optimism Cooper may break the losing streak. — Charlotte Observer, 25 Aug. 2026 There’s optimism Kansas could have an underrated defense, TCU cruises to a relative easy 30-plus points. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Aug. 2026 Daniel Graves, from consulting firm Kimley-Horn, expressed optimism about the chances for timely approval from IDOT, particularly the pedestrian activated crossing signal. — Hank Beckman, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optimism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optimism
  1. hopefulness
  2. brightness
  3. cheerfulness
Noun
  • Hope and persistence pay off Some of the happiest children are those who maintain a sense of hopefulness and possibility.
    — Liz Rosenberg, The Conversation, 14 Aug. 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
  • These zones adjust their brightness according to the content on screen, dimming darker areas while maintaining brightness in highlights.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 31 Aug. 2026
  • The brightness and satisfying variety in textures and flavors brought me back to life after a long day of dancing and eating.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of brightness
Noun
  • The service Professionalism comes with genuine warmth, cheerfulness, and a sense of people absolutely loving their jobs.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Kikuko sometimes mistook Shigejiro’s cheerfulness for egoism owing to the distortions produced by her illness.
    — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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