crestfallen
UK: ˈkrɛstˌfɔːlən | US: ˈkrɛstˌfɑːlən
adj. feeling shame or humiliation due to disappointment or failure
adj. visibly dejected or dispirited
crestfallen = crest<top/head> + fallen<dropped>
- crest: Originally from Latin crista (tuft, plume), referring to the top of a bird's head or a helmet. Metaphorically extended to mean "peak" or "pride."
- fallen: From Old English feallan (to drop), implying a literal or symbolic descent.
Etymology Origin:
The term crestfallen originated in falconry (16th century), describing a bird whose crest (head feathers) drooped due to exhaustion or defeat. By the 1600s, it evolved metaphorically to depict human dejection—visualizing a "fallen crest" as a symbol of lost pride or morale. The imagery persists in modern usage, emphasizing visible discouragement.
She was crestfallen after her team lost the championship.
His crestfallen expression revealed the rejection letter’s impact.
The students looked crestfallen when the field trip was canceled.
Despite his efforts, he walked away crestfallen.
The actor’s crestfallen demeanor hinted at the harsh criticism he’d received.