Disspirited

Dispirited describes a state of being discouraged, disheartened, and lacking in enthusiasm or hope. It signifies a loss of morale or confidence, often stemming from setbacks, disappointments, or a general sense of pessimism. It can manifest as a sense of weariness, apathy, or a diminished desire to pursue goals or engage in activities. The term implies a weakening of the spirit, a draining of one's usual vitality and zest for life. This state may be temporary, caused by specific events, or more enduring, reflecting underlying emotional or psychological factors. It suggests a feeling of being weighed down by difficulties or a lack of positive prospects, hindering one's motivation and drive.

Disspirited meaning with examples

• The team was dispirited after losing the championship game by a narrow margin, their faces etched with disappointment. They had worked so hard all season, and this loss left a palpable sense of defeat. Even the coach struggled to offer words of encouragement to his disheartened players, acknowledging the crushing blow to their aspirations and collective spirit after the close match.
• After weeks of searching for a job with no luck, Sarah felt increasingly dispirited. The constant rejections and lack of responses took their toll on her confidence. Her initial optimism faded as she began to doubt her abilities and the possibility of finding fulfilling employment in the face of mounting financial and personal pressure.
• The soldiers returned from the war weary and dispirited, carrying the emotional scars of conflict. They were suffering from intense depression and PTSD and found it difficult to adjust back to civilian life and to rekindle their former spirit after all they had witnessed and experienced in battle and the heavy price for war.
• Reading the bleak economic forecast left many investors dispirited, prompting a sell-off in the stock market. The announcement of potential recession weighed heavily, leading to concerns about job security, business losses, and the erosion of economic prosperity causing a general lack of confidence in economic outlooks.
• Despite the beautiful scenery, the hikers became dispirited by the relentless rain and muddy trails. Their initial excitement for the expedition dissipated as the weather conditions deteriorated, leaving them cold, wet, and increasingly longing to be done. The conditions sapped their energy and reduced the morale for continuing onward.