139 Another Word for Despair? – Despair Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say despair differently? Here are other words for despair and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of despair

The primary meaning of the word "despair" is a state of hopelessness and desperation.

Etymology of despair

The word "despair" has its roots in the Old French word "desesperer", which is derived from the Latin words "de" (meaning "away from") and "sperare" (meaning "to hope")
Historically, the word has been used to describe a state of hopelessness and desperation, often in the context of a crisis or a difficult situation
The word has been in use since the 14th century and has evolved to encompass a range of emotions, from mild disappointment to extreme desperation

Synonyms

hopelessness desperation despondency pessimism gloom melancholy sadness sorrow grief anguish distress misery wretchedness desperation desolation discouragement disheartenment demoralization disillusionment frustration resignation defeatism cynicism skepticism fatalism nihilism desperation despairing despondence pessimistic gloomy dismal bleak dreary cheerlessness despondency desperation desperation desolation

Definitions

  • The feeling of having lost all hope, being utterly hopeless and having no confidence or expectation of something good happening
  • The state of being completely disappointed, disheartened, or frustrated, often due to a difficult or unpleasant situation
  • A state of mind where an individual feels they have no control over their circumstances and that their situation is impossible to change

Usage Examples

  • The news of the job loss filled her with despair, and she struggled to find the motivation to keep looking for work
  • The family was in despair after the devastating hurricane destroyed their home
  • The doctor's diagnosis left the patient in a state of despair, feeling as though all hope was lost

Antonyms

hope optimism confidence cheerfulness happiness joy elation euphoria ecstasy delight enthusiasm excitement positivity reassurance encouragement solace comfort relief tranquility serenity calmness peace contentment satisfaction fulfillment

Related Adjectives

hopeless desperate despondent pessimistic gloomy melancholy sad sorrowful miserable wretched desolate discouraging disheartening demoralizing disillusioning frustrating resigned defeatist cynical skeptical fatalistic nihilistic bleak dreary dismal cheerless

Related Nouns

sorrow grief anguish misery wretchedness desperation desolation discouragement disheartenment demoralization disillusionment frustration resignation defeatism cynicism skepticism fatalism nihilism hopelessness despondency pessimism gloom melancholy sadness distress desperation

Related Verbs

despond despair lose heart give up succumb surrender yield resign abandon relinquish forsake abandon desert leave quit relinquish surrender yield succumb submit capitulate concede relinquish
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