VocabDictionary

optimist

/ˈɒptɪmɪst/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person who tends to be hopeful and confident about the future or the success of something.

Example Sentences:
  • Despite the economic downturn, the optimist remained convinced that the company would recover by next year.
  • She is a natural optimist who always finds a silver lining in every difficult situation.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “optimist”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'optimus' meaning 'best', combined with the suffix '-ist' denoting a person who practices or adheres to a doctrine. The term emerged in the 18th century, originally used in philosophical contexts to describe those who believed that the existing world is the best of all possible worlds, a concept famously satirized by Voltaire in 'Candide'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who always looks for the 'optimum' (best) outcome in any situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About “optimist

1. What is the meaning of “optimist” in English?

In English, optimist (noun) is defined as: “A person who tends to be hopeful and confident about the future or the success of something.”.

2. How do you use “optimist” in a sentence?

Despite the economic downturn, the optimist remained convinced that the company would recover by next year.

3. What are English synonyms of “optimist”?

Common synonyms include:idealist,positive thinker,hopeful,visionary

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “optimist”?

Derived from the Latin 'optimus' meaning 'best', combined with the suffix '-ist' denoting a person who practices or adheres to a doctrine. The term emerged in the 18th century, originally used in philosophical contexts to describe those who believed that the existing world is the best of all possible worlds, a concept famously satirized by Voltaire in 'Candide'.