micawber
Definition
Noun: 1. A person who is unrealistically or foolishly optimistic, especially in the face of adversity or while waiting for a favorable event to happen. This term originates from a fictional character, Wilkins Micawber, in Charles Dickens's novel David Copperfield, who is perpetually hopeful that "something will turn up" to solve his financial problems.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- Despite the mounting evidence against the project's success, he remained a Micawber, convinced that a last-minute investor would appear.
- Her Micawber-like attitude was charming at first, but her refusal to make practical plans became frustrating.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used attributively (as an adjective) in the form "Micawberish" or the phrase "a Micawberish attitude" to describe the characteristic optimism of such a person.
- It can imply a degree of irresponsibility, as the original character's optimism often led him to neglect practical action.
Variants and Related Words
- Micawberish (adj): Having the characteristically unrealistic optimism of a Micawber.
- His Micawberish faith in the stock market eventually led to significant losses.
Synonyms
- Optimist (though this is a more general and less critical term)
- Pollyanna (another literary-derived term for an excessively optimistic person)
- Idealist (focuses on pursuing ideals, which may be unrealistic)
- Dreamer (one who indulges in unrealistic hopes or fantasies)
Related Idioms
- Waiting for something to turn up: This phrase is directly associated with the character Micawber and encapsulates the passive, hopeful attitude he represents.
- You can't just sit there waiting for something to turn up; you need to start applying for jobs.
Noun
-
fictional character created by Charles Dickens; an eternal optimist
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