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.

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

He was so despondent, his mother said, that she felt her only option was to allow them to be sent back to El Salvador, a country Edwin left when he was 5.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

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

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026

A despondent young woman in a black raincoat with much black hair on her face passed with her eyes lowered.

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

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 8

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!