Definitions

despondent

[dih-spon-duhnt] / dɪˈspɒn dənt /

ADJECTIVE

depressed

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dejected discouraged disheartened forlorn glum morose sad

WEAK

all torn up blue bummed out cast down despairing disconsolate dispirited doleful down downcast downhearted gloomy griefstricken grieving hopeless in a blue funk in despair in the pits low low-spirited melancholy miserable mourning shot down sorrowful woebegone wretched

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cheerful encouraged happy joyful

WEAK

elated hopeful spirited up

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.

Even the act of nourishment now feels despondent.

From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026

Amid global crises, economic instability, and the threat of climate change, many young people are feeling increasingly despondent.

From Slate • May 12, 2026

So when a despondent Tatum was wheeled into his hospital the morning after his injury—accompanied by his mother and Celtics president Brad Stevens—the surgeon stressed the importance of acting as soon as possible.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

A measured Alcaraz was not overly despondent afterwards but has returned to Melbourne intent on winning.

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026

They were plainly out of the question, Yossarian explained adamantly to Sergeant Towser, whose sallow equine face was despondent as he informed Yossarian that the new officers would have to be admitted.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller

Vocabulary lists containing despondent

The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Emotions on Display

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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 8

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