despondent
UK: dɪˈspɒn.dənt | US: dɪˈspɑːn.dənt
adj. feeling or showing extreme discouragement, dejection, or depression
despondent = de<away> + spond<promise> + ent<adjective suffix>
- de (Latin: "away," indicating reversal or removal)
- spond (Latin: "spondere," meaning "to promise," as in "sponsor" or "respond")
- ent (adjective-forming suffix, indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "despondent" originates from Latin despondēre ("to give up, lose heart"), combining de- (away) and spondēre (to promise). Historically, it referred to formally abandoning a pledge (e.g., a marriage vow), later evolving to describe emotional surrender—losing hope or motivation. The modern sense reflects a psychological state of profound discouragement, as if one has "withdrawn from a promise" to oneself or life.
After failing the exam, she grew increasingly despondent.
The team became despondent following their third consecutive loss.
His despondent expression revealed his inner turmoil.
Despite the setbacks, she refused to remain despondent.
The novel’s protagonist is a despondent artist searching for meaning.