mindset
noun
mind·set
ˈmīn(d)-ˌset 
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
Jane and Michael Stern2
: 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
William VollmanExamples of mindset in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Biglari’s vision for Steak ‘n Shake was to revitalize the ailing brand by implementing tighter cost controls, improved service, and a more entrepreneurial mindset.
—Lily Mae Lazarus, Fortune, 18 Sep. 2025
That mindset, growth without limits, is what has kept her undefeated.
—Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
This mindset began in him at an early age; it was cultivated within the walls of his family’s unit in New York City’s Fulton Projects.
—Essence, 18 Sep. 2025
Their tried-and-true tricks range from clever packing hacks to money-saving strategies and simple mindset shifts.
—Alesandra Dubin, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Lily Mae Lazarus, Fortune, 18 Sep. 2025
That mindset, growth without limits, is what has kept her undefeated.
—Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
This mindset began in him at an early age; it was cultivated within the walls of his family’s unit in New York City’s Fulton Projects.
—Essence, 18 Sep. 2025
Their tried-and-true tricks range from clever packing hacks to money-saving strategies and simple mindset shifts.
—Alesandra Dubin, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Mindset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mindset. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
mindset
noun
mind·set
variants
also mind-set
: a mental inclination, tendency, or habit
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share