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

Hate, once it is unleashed and legitimized, will spread and mutate, targeting other minorities and vulnerable groups and, eventually, anyone who dares to question the mob mentality. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

This teamwork mentality has many advantages, particularly when their homes are under construction. —Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024

Just having that mentality of coming out fast, not getting our beaks wet. —Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 23 Oct. 2024

That all goes back to having that athlete mentality. —Ruhama Wolle, Glamour, 18 Oct. 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