downcast

UK: ˈdaʊnkɑːst | US: ˈdaʊnkæst

Definition

  1. adj. 1. (of eyes) directed downward, typically due to sadness or shyness

  2. adj. 2. feeling or showing low spirits; dejected

  3. vt. 3. (archaic) to cast or throw downward

Structure
down <lower direction>cast <throw or direct>
Etymology

The word "downcast" combines "down" (from Old English dūne, meaning "from a higher to a lower position") and "cast" (from Old Norse kasta, meaning "to throw or direct"). Originally used literally for throwing something downward (e.g., "downcast a net"), it later evolved metaphorically to describe eyes or spirits "thrown downward" by sadness or defeat. The shift from physical to emotional meaning reflects the connection between body language and mood.

Examples

  1. Her downcast eyes revealed her embarrassment.

  2. He walked away with a downcast expression after the rejection.

  3. (Archaic) The fisherman downcast his net into the river.

  4. The team felt downcast after their loss.

  5. She spoke in a downcast tone, barely above a whisper.