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Showing results for defeatism. Search instead for defeatis.
Definitions

defeatism

[dih-fee-tiz-uhm] / dɪˈfi tɪz əm /
NOUN
negative attitude
Synonyms
WEAK
chip on one's shoulder cynicism dim view discouragement expectation of the worst gloomy outlook hopelessness lack of confidence low spirits negative thinking negativism pessimism
NOUN
submission
Synonyms
STRONGEST
capitulation resignation
STRONG
acquiescence appeasement assent bowing deference docility humbleness humility malleability meekness nonresistance obedience passivism passivity prostration servility subjection submissiveness surrender tractability unassertiveness yielding
WEAK
backing down cringing giving-in pliabilty recreancy submitting
Antonyms
STRONG
disagreement disobedience rebellion
WEAK
fight resistance

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the smallness and lockstep defeatism of so much commentary on the war also stems from the normal human tendency to interpret today’s big thing as another version of yesterday’s.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

It may be tempting to slide into defeatism.

From Slate • Jan. 23, 2026

And he slammed cadres who for "too long been accustomed to defeatism, irresponsibility and passiveness".

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

It was a comment seized upon by Russia as a sign of resignation and defeatism.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

To assume that we must resign ourselves to turning our waterways into rivers of death is to follow the counsel of despair and defeatism.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson