WordGarden.iodownhearted
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈaʊnhɑːtɪd/
US
- /dˈaʊnhɑːrtɪd/
Meanings
Adjective
sad and discouraged
Beyond the definition
To be downhearted is to feel sad and discouraged, usually because something has gone wrong or hope feels weaker than before. It is more than a passing moment of feeling bad. The feeling often stays for a while and shows up after a loss, a failure, or other disappointment. A person might feel this way after bad news, after missing an important chance, or after working hard for something that did not happen. In stories, characters are often described this way when a setback leaves them quiet, low in spirits, and unsure what will happen next.
The word "downhearted" describes a state of sadness and discouragement, especially after a disappointment, loss, or setback. It is stronger than simply feeling a little sad, but it does not always suggest extreme despair. Instead, it often paints the picture of someone whose spirits have dropped and whose hope has been shaken.
It is commonly used when a person has been trying, hoping, or waiting for something, and the result is painful or disappointing. Someone may feel downhearted after failing an exam, losing a competition, receiving a rejection, or watching plans fall apart. The word fits both personal situations and events in stories, where characters lose confidence or begin to feel that things may not get better soon.
Compared with words like "sad" or "upset," "downhearted" adds the idea of low spirits and lost encouragement. It often suggests a heavier, more lasting feeling than a brief emotional reaction. If someone looks quiet, disappointed, and less hopeful after bad news, this word may fit well. It is a gentle but clear way to describe a person who feels emotionally weighed down and finds it hard to feel positive for the moment.
Examples
- 1
Rejection
She felt downhearted after reading the rejection email.
- 2
Learning
Don't get too downhearted if your first few lessons feel difficult.
- Phraseget downhearted
start feeling this way
- 3
Leaving a team
He seemed downhearted about having to leave the team.
- 4
Sports setback
The players looked tired and downhearted after the late goal.
See also
Similar
- discouraged
- dejected
- dispirited
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- feel downhearted
- look downhearted
- downhearted about something
Word family
- downheartedly
- downheartedness
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- downheartedadjective