Optimism
/ˈɒp.tɪ.mɪ.zəm/noun
A hopeful outlook on life, believing that good things will happen.
Did you know?The term 'optimism' was coined during the Age of Enlightenment, a time when humanity was torn between faith in reason and the harsh realities of existence.
Etymological Timeline
Late 17th Century
Latin
optimus
“meaning 'the best' or 'most excellent', reflecting a positive view of life.”
Early 18th Century
French
optimisme
“coined to describe a philosophy that everything happens for the best.”
Mid 18th Century
English
optimism
“adopted in English to denote a hopeful attitude towards life.”
Late 19th Century
English
optimism
“often associated with philosophical debates about the nature of good and evil.”