attitude
UK: ˈætɪtjuːd | US: ˈætɪtuːd
n. a settled way of thinking or feeling about something
n. a position of the body indicating mood or intention
n. (informal) confidence or assertiveness
The word "attitude" originates from the Latin aptitudo (fitness, sharpness), later influenced by Italian attitudine (posture, disposition). The root att- reflects a sense of sharpness or readiness, while -itude (a suffix borrowed from French) denotes a state or condition. Over time, the meaning shifted from physical posture to mental disposition, emphasizing how one "positions" themselves psychologically.
Her positive attitude makes her a joy to work with.
The dancer held a graceful attitude for the photograph.
He needs to adjust his attitude if he wants to succeed.
The team’s winning attitude propelled them to victory.
She struck an attitude of defiance during the debate.