Definitions

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.

Optimism came through other channels too, such as her job as Diane Keaton’s assistant, eventually co-creating her 2024 book “Fashion First.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

Optimism around the U.S. and Iran reaching a peace agreement, despite ongoing hostilities, appeared to be growing.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

Optimism around the AI spending spree has driven much of the record-setting rally this year, with particularly eye-watering gains seen in individual stocks like Micron,

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

Her most recent album, Radical Optimism, was released in 2024.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

Optimism soon revived: The Germans will not come this far.

From "Night" by Elie Wiesel

Vocabulary lists containing optimism

Words for a New Year

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Power Suffix: -ism

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Starting Your New Life: Inspiring Words from Commencement Speeches

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