optimistic

the word "optimistic" is built upon the latin root optimus, meaning "best". this root was incorporated into the philosophical term "optimism", coined in the 18th century to describe the doctrine that this world is the best of all possible worlds. the suffix "-ist" was added to denote an adherent of this philosophy, forming "optimist". finally, the adjectival suffix "-ic" was appended, shifting the focus from the person to the characteristic attitude. thus, the literal construction "pertaining to one who believes in the best" evolved into the modern sense of having a hopeful and confident outlook.

Structure: optim (best) + ist (person who believes) + ic (adjective suffix) - optim: from latin optimus, meaning "best". - ist: a suffix of greek origin via latin, denoting a person who practices or is concerned with something, or holds certain principles. - ic: a suffix from greek via latin and french, forming adjectives meaning "of, pertaining to, or characteristic of".