mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈta-lə-tē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power or capacity : intelligence

2

: mode or way of thought : outlook

the imperialist mentality of the nineteenth century

—John Davies

Synonyms

• brain(s)
• brainpower
• gray matter
• headpiece
• intellect
• intellectuality
• intelligence
• reason
• sense
• smarts

Examples of mentality in a Sentence

most teenagers do not have the mentality to foresee the consequences of such risky behavior

Recent Examples on the Web

Here’s How Today’s Eclipse Of The Full Moon Sets Up A ‘Ring Of Fire’ — What To Know Companies need to embrace the mentality that Manning showed this past weekend: next man up. —Don Yaeger, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024

Lopez has adopted the zero-waste mentality long embraced by Native communities, too. —Jen Murphy, Outside Online, 16 Sep. 2024

This mob mentality that is demonstrated in these cases is significantly more dangerous for the victim. —Robert Anglen, The Arizona Republic, 11 Sep. 2024

By embracing a founder’s mentality, leaders can foster cultures of innovation and resilience where every team member is inspired to contribute to the company’s growth and long-term legacy. —Nirav Tolia, Fortune, 10 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1691, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing mentality

• bunker mentality
• herd mentality
• siege mentality
• victim mentality

Kids Definition

mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power : intelligence

2

: a particular way of thinking : outlook

Medical Definition

mentality

noun

men·​tal·​i·​ty men-ˈtal-ət-ē 

plural mentalities

1

: mental power or capacity

2

: mode or way of thought