despondent
What does "despondent" mean?
To be despondent is to feel a profound sense of hopelessness, discouragement, or gloom. The mental image is of someone whose spirit has "sunk" or retreated, often because they feel that a situation is beyond repair or that their efforts are entirely futile. While similar to "sad," despondent carries a weight of resignation. It is typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe a deep, lingering state of despair rather than a passing mood. You might see it used to describe someone after a significant failure or a long period of hardship.
"despondent" in conversation
Discussing a failed project
Are you still feeling despondent about the rejection letter?
Are you still feeling despondent about the rejection letter?
I suppose so. It feels like I've hit a dead end.
I suppose so. It feels like I've hit a dead end.
Used here to describe a lingering feeling of defeat after a specific setback.
Checking on a friend
You've been so quiet lately, you seem really despondent.
You've been so quiet lately, you seem really despondent.
It's just been a rough month, I guess I'm just drained.
It's just been a rough month, I guess I'm just drained.
Used to note a visible change in someone's demeanor.
"despondent" in a sentence
She felt despondent after failing the exam.
She felt despondent after failing the exam.
The team grew despondent as the opposing side scored their third goal.
The team grew despondent as the opposing side scored their third goal.
Despite the despondent atmosphere in the room, he continued to advocate for a peaceful resolution.
Despite the despondent atmosphere in the room, he continued to advocate for a peaceful resolution.
