mindset

noun

mind·​set ˈmīn(d)-ˌset How to pronounce mindset (audio)
variants or less commonly mind-set
plural mindsets also mind-sets
1
: a mental attitude or inclination
politicians trying to determine the mindset of voters
It isn't only the freshness of the fruit that makes breakfast in California restaurants outstanding. It's an attitude, a morning mindset, a desire to start the day in a leisurely, luxurious manner.Jane and Michael Stern
2
: a fixed state of mind
His mind-set does not allow for new situations.
The German military thought they were being honorable, and this wasn't an excuse—this was their complete mindset.William Vollman

Examples of mindset in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Others believe Maye trusts his athleticism and arm too much, and that mindset can lead to poor decisions. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 25 Apr. 2024 Hollywood, its own world, doesn’t exist exclusively to serve the other, the suburban mindset, ... Brian T. Allen, National Review, 25 Apr. 2024 By acknowledging the situation, developing a plan of action, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking support, individuals can build a path forward and embark on a journey toward a healthier and more rewarding work environment. Ebony Flake, Essence, 24 Apr. 2024 Tall, ripped, and possessing the deft physical presence of the world’s most dangerous mime, the actor does a trial run for action stardom with Boy Kills World, which isn’t a movie so much as a 12-year-old boy’s mindset brought to life. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 23 Apr. 2024 Maybe the latest news signals a change in the mindset of the wealthy. Byalena Botros, Fortune, 19 Apr. 2024 Asked what his priorities are, Thompson provided his most direct answer about his mindset going into the offseason. Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 17 Apr. 2024 That’s a mindset that would have come in handy for unpredictable food acquisition, like the sudden appearance of a herd of mammoths or an unexpected bounty of berries. Popsci Staff, Popular Science, 10 Apr. 2024 The firm’s ambition to integrate automation and AI reflects a forward-thinking mindset, aiming to enhance efficiency and empower the team to take a more significant role within the company. William Mullane, USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'mindset.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mindset was in 1909

Dictionary Entries Near mindset

Cite this Entry

“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

mindset

noun
mind·​set
variants also mind-set
: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit

More from Merriam-Webster on mindset

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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