Definitions

optimistic

[op-tuh-mis-tik] / ˌɒp təˈmɪs tɪk /

ADJECTIVE

believing positively

Synonyms

STRONG

assured bright buoyant cheerful cheering confident encouraged expectant happy high hopeful hoping idealistic keeping the faith merry on cloud nine on top of world positive promising ray of sunshine rose-colored rosy sanguine sunny trusting utopian

Antonyms

STRONG

dejected depressed doubtful gloomy hopeless pessimistic sorrowful

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.

There are other reasons why investors may be feeling optimistic about Intel.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded in late May, but Jeff Bezos is optimistic about a 2026 return to flight.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

They’re staying optimistic on stocks, while acknowledging risks are rising.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

Yet just days after they reached an agreement for “Tower,” Greenwald was fired and replaced by a new leader, Elliot Grainge, about whom the band felt less than optimistic.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

Along with personal messages were rumors about the world outside, each more wildly optimistic than the last.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Vocabulary lists containing optimistic

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 1

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Positive Words to Describe a Person

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!