PANGLOSSIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Panglossian can be defined as an adjective that describes an excessively optimistic or naive outlook on life, events, or situations, often to the point of being unrealistic or impractical. The term finds its origins in the character Dr. Pangloss from Voltaire's novel "Candide," who embodies unwavering optimism despite experiencing numerous hardships and witnessing terrible events.
A person who is described as panglossian tends to have an overly positive perspective, believing that everything in life is ultimately for the best, regardless of evidence to the contrary. This attitude often disregards the complexities and challenges that exist within the world, neglecting the need to critically assess situations realistically.
A panglossian individual may engage in wishful thinking, refusing to acknowledge or address potential problems or negative outcomes. They might believe that everything will automatically work out favorably, even in the face of obstacles or in situations where rational thinking would suggest otherwise.
The term can also imply a tendency to downplay or dismiss any discontent, criticism, or obstacles encountered along the way. Panglossian individuals may underestimate the difficulties involved in achieving a particular goal, assuming that a positive mindset alone will suffice to overcome any challenges that arise.
In summary, to be panglossian is to possess a relentlessly and often impractically optimistic mindset, disregarding potential problems, obstacles, or negative outcomes. This term highlights an unyielding and sometimes unrealistic faith in the essential goodness or favorability of any situation.
Common Misspellings for PANGLOSSIAN
- oanglossian
- langlossian
- -anglossian
- 0anglossian
- pznglossian
- psnglossian
- pwnglossian
- pqnglossian
- pabglossian
- pamglossian
- pajglossian
- pahglossian
- panflossian
- panvlossian
- panblossian
- panhlossian
- panylossian
- pantlossian
- pangkossian
- pangpossian
Etymology of PANGLOSSIAN
The word "Panglossian" is derived from the character Dr. Pangloss in Voltaire's satirical novel "Candide". Dr. Pangloss is a philosopher who believes in the idea of "optimism", which suggests that everything in the world happens for the best in the best of all possible worlds.
The term "Panglossian" originated from the name of this character and was coined to describe someone who possesses an unwavering, excessive, or irrational optimism, regardless of the circumstances. The word is often used to criticize individuals who maintain an overly positive outlook, even in challenging or adverse situations.
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