VocabDictionary

optimistic

/ˌɒp.tɪˈmɪs.tɪk/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Hopeful and confident about the future or the success of something.

Example Sentences:
  • She remains optimistic about finding a solution to the complex problem.
  • Despite the rainy forecast, the team was optimistic that the event would be a success.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'optimus' meaning 'best', combined with the French suffix '-iste' and the Greek-derived suffix '-ic'. The term was coined in the 18th century, popularized by the philosophical debate surrounding Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz's 'Theodicy', which argued that we live in the 'best of all possible worlds'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'OPTIcal' lens that only focuses on the 'best' (optimus) parts of a situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About “optimistic

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

In English, optimistic (adjective) is defined as: “Hopeful and confident about the future or the success of something.”.

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

She remains optimistic about finding a solution to the complex problem.

3. What are English synonyms of “optimistic”?

Common synonyms include:hopeful,sanguine,positive,upbeat

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

Derived from the Latin 'optimus' meaning 'best', combined with the French suffix '-iste' and the Greek-derived suffix '-ic'. The term was coined in the 18th century, popularized by the philosophical debate surrounding Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz's 'Theodicy', which argued that we live in the 'best of all possible worlds'.