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.

The way she played the closing hole, especially, inspires such optimism.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

“If you have a vision and you can execute it, awesome,” said Devon Fowler, a Poultney native who lives across the street from Bhakta’s home, regarding his optimism at the time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

To be sure, May’s strong jobs report should underpin economic optimism.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 7, 2026

That echoed optimism from CEO David Limp earlier in the week.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 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

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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