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

Aviles told the San Antonio Express-News, which published the text messages first, that the relationship and the professional ostracization his wife faced after it was discovered led her to become despondent before her death.

From Salon • Feb. 25, 2026

McGrath then trudged off to the other side of the course, despondent, lying in the snow in angry reflection.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

That attitude “has pretty much vanished from British society,” Dr. Daniels says, and it makes him despondent.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

“I did fail, say what you will, for Jo wouldn’t love me,” began Laurie, leaning his head on his hand in a despondent attitude.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Vocabulary lists containing despondent

The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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Emotions on Display

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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 8

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