Meaning & Definition of word "Optimist"

Optimist

/ˈɒptɪmɪst/

noun:

  • 1. A person who tends to be hopeful and confident about the future or the success of something.
    • Example: Despite the challenges ahead, she remained an optimist about the project's outcome.
  • 2. A person who believes that good ultimately predominates over evil in the world.
    • Example: He is an optimist who believes that humanity will overcome its struggles.
  • 3. A person who interprets situations in the most favorable way.
    • Example: As an optimist, he always sees the silver lining even in tough circumstances.

Etymology

The word 'optimist' derives from the French 'optimiste', which comes from the Latin 'optimus', meaning 'best'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

glass half full:

A metaphor for viewing situations positively.

look on the bright side:

To focus on the positive aspects of a situation.

every cloud has a silver lining:

In every difficult situation, there is a chance for something good.

Related Words

optimism:

A belief that good things will happen.

pessimist:

A person who tends to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen.

hope:

A feeling of expectation for a positive outcome.

Slang Meanings of optimist

Meaning: Pollyanna

Example Sentence: Don't be such a Pollyanna, the world can be tough!

Meaning: rose-colored glasses

Example Sentence: Sometimes she sees everything through rose-colored glasses.