ˈäptəˌmizəm noun
( -s )
Etymology: French optimisme, from Latin optimum that which is best, (from neuter of optimus best) + French -isme -ism; akin to Latin ops power, wealth, help — more at opulent
1.
a. : a doctrine that this world is the best possible world based on the argument that God being all-wise must know all possible worlds, being all-powerful must be able to create whichsoever he might choose, and being all-good must choose the best — used originally in reference to this doctrine as formulated by Leibniz
b. : a doctrine or opinion that reality is essentially good, completely good, or as good as it conceivably could be
c. : a doctrine that the goods of life overbalance the pain and evil of it and that life is preponderantly good — compare pessimism
2.
a. : the quality of being the best or for the best
b. : the best possible or conceivable condition
3. : an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and happenings, to minimize adverse aspects, conditions, and possibilities, or to anticipate the best possible outcome : a cheerful and hopeful temperament