- Today's Word
Sanguine
Sanguine
SANG-gwin
Definition
(adjective) Optimistic or hopeful, especially in a difficult situation.
Example
Despite the company setbacks, the CEO remained sanguine about the future.
Word Origin
Middle English: from Old French sanguin(e), from Latin sanguineus ‘of blood’ — originally referring to the belief that a person’s blood temperament made them cheerful.
Fun Fact
Historically, sanguine was one of the four “humors” in ancient medicine. People with a sanguine temperament were believed to be cheerful, sociable, and energetic, thanks to an abundance of blood in their system. Today, the word is still used to describe people who remain confident and upbeat, especially when others are panicking. It’s a subtle way to say, they’re keeping it together—even when things look bleak.