despondent
Say it: dih-SPON-dunt /dɪˈspɑndənt/ · adjective
What “despondent” means
Very sad because you have lost hope.
More precisely: In low spirits from loss of hope or courage.
Example: “After the third rejection, he felt despondent about the job search.”
When to use it
Use it when setbacks make someone feel there is no point trying. It is stronger and more formal than discouraged.
Similar words
hopeless, dejected, downcast
Where it comes from
From Latin despondere, "to give up, lose heart."
Quick check
Your business has failed repeatedly, and you no longer believe another attempt could work. How do you feel?
despondent or apprehensive?
Show the answer
despondent
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