downhearted
UK: ˌdaʊnˈhɑːtɪd | US: ˌdaʊnˈhɑːrtɪd
adj. feeling discouraged, sad, or hopeless
The word "downhearted" combines "down" (Old English dūne, meaning "lowered") and "heart" (Old English heorte, symbolizing courage or spirit). The suffix "-ed" turns it into an adjective. Historically, the heart was seen as the seat of emotions, so a "lowered heart" metaphorically describes a state of sadness or defeat. This compound emerged in the 16th century, reflecting the physical-to-emotional metaphor common in English.
After losing the match, the team felt downhearted but vowed to try again.
She grew downhearted when her job application was rejected.
His downhearted expression revealed his disappointment.
Despite the rain, they refused to be downhearted and continued their picnic indoors.
The coach’s pep talk lifted the players’ downhearted spirits.