of despondent Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdɪsˌpɒndnt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

(of a person or their expression) showing a state of deep sadness or hopelessness.

Examples

• The look of despondent on her face showed her true emotions.
• The atmosphere of the room felt of despondent, despite the upbeat music.

Synonyms

• Depressed
• Despondent
• Sorrowful

Antonyms

• Elated
• Euphoric
• Exuberant

Etymology

From Middle English ‘despondent’, from Old French ‘despendre’, to despair, from Latin ‘desperare’, to give up hope

Usage Notes

Cultural References

The character of Hamlet in William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet is often described as of despondent.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• to feel of despondent
• with a look of despondent

Related Words or Phrases

• Hopeless
• Sorrowful
• Depressed

Collocations

• of despondent face
• of despondent expression

Frequency of Use

Common Misspellings

• despondence
• despondancy