Dejected

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/dɪˈdʒɛktɪd/

Definitions

• Feeling sad, dispirited, or downhearted.
• In a state of low spirits, typically due to disappointment or failure.

Usage Examples

• She felt dejected after hearing the disappointing news.
• The team appeared dejected after their defeat in the final match.

Etymology

Derived from Latin 'dejectus', meaning 'thrown down', from the verb 'deicere' (to throw down). It evolved to represent emotional 'low' or 'down' states in the late Middle Ages.

Synonyms

• Downcast
• Disheartened
• Melancholy
• Sad
• Depressed

Antonyms

• Happy
• Cheerful
• Elated
• Upbeat
• Optimistic

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the word "dejected" may have a softer pronunciation, especially in non-native English speakers, with variations in the 'j' sound.

Historical Usage

First recorded in English in the 16th century, the term 'dejected' originally referred to physical disorientation or being 'thrown down', later evolving to describe a state of emotional despair or discouragement.

Cultural Nuances

The word "dejected" is commonly used in Western cultures to describe personal emotional states, while in other cultures, it may emphasize external circumstances such as societal pressures or family obligations influencing one's mood.

More Information

'Dejected' describes a mood of sadness or a loss of hope, often due to a personal disappointment. It is a term commonly used in psychological and literary contexts to describe characters or individuals who experience emotional setbacks. The use of the word can indicate a transient feeling or a deeper, more prolonged sense of disheartenment. Cultural differences in expressing this emotion may vary, but universally, it represents a human reaction to negative life events.