Defeated: meaning, definitions and examples

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defeated

 

[dɪˈfiːtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

feeling sad and disappointed because you have failed and are not successful

Synonyms

beaten, crushed, overwhelmed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defeated

Used to describe a situation where someone or something has lost in a competition, battle, or struggle. The tone is generally neutral.

  • The team was defeated in the final match.
  • She felt defeated after failing the exam for the third time.
beaten

Often used to describe someone who has suffered a loss, usually in a competition or fight. The term can also imply physical harm.

  • He was beaten in the boxing match.
  • After a long day at work, she felt completely beaten.
crushed

Conveys a more intense or significant defeat, where someone or something has been thoroughly overpowered or destroyed. Often has a stronger emotional impact.

  • The underdog team was crushed by the champions.
  • His dreams were crushed when he didn't get the job.
overwhelmed

Implies being defeated in a way that leaves someone feeling completely powerless or unable to cope, often due to the sheer scale or intensity of the challenge faced.

  • She felt overwhelmed by the amount of homework.
  • The small army was overwhelmed by the sheer number of enemy forces.

Examples of usage

  • I felt defeated after losing the match.
  • She looked defeated as she handed in her resignation letter.
Context #2 | Verb

battle

won over in a battle, game, or competition

Synonyms

conquer, overpower, vanquish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defeated

This word is commonly used to describe someone or something that has lost in a competition, conflict, or challenge.

  • The team felt defeated after losing the championship game.
  • She looked defeated after failing her exam.
conquer

Used to describe someone or something that has successfully taken control of a place or situation, often through force or effort.

  • The explorers aimed to conquer the uncharted territory.
  • He managed to conquer his fear of public speaking.
overpower

This word is often used to describe a situation where someone or something is overwhelmed by a stronger force. It often implies physical or mental dominance.

  • The wrestler was able to overpower his opponent easily.
  • The aroma of the fresh bread overpowered her senses.
vanquish

Used to denote a complete and total defeat over an opponent, often carrying a more formal or dramatic tone.

  • The knight vowed to vanquish the evil dragon.
  • His strategic planning helped vanquish their business competitors.

Examples of usage

  • The champion defeated his opponent in just a few minutes.
  • We must work together to defeat our common enemy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old French 'defeati', which means 'to destroy' or 'to vanquish'.
  • Its Latin root is 'deficere', meaning 'to fail' or 'to fall away', which captures the sense of loss.
  • The concept of defeat has existed for centuries, deeply rooted in conflicts and competitions throughout history.

Psychology

  • Experiencing defeat can trigger feelings of disappointment and impact self-esteem, often leading to a desire for resilience.
  • Coping with loss and defeat is a critical part of developing grit and perseverance, essential traits for success.
  • Studies show that viewing defeat as a learning experience can help people grow and improve in their future efforts.

Sports

  • Many athletes face defeat multiple times before achieving their goals, teaching them valuable lessons along the way.
  • In sports, the thrill of competition means that everyone faces the chance of being defeated, which is part of the overall experience.
  • Historic matches often highlight famous examples of defeat leading to major comebacks, inspiring future competitors.

Literature

  • Defeat is a common theme in literature, often leading to character development and the exploration of resilience.
  • Classic stories depict protagonists who face defeat as a stepping stone toward self-discovery and triumph.
  • Poets have long explored the emotions tied to defeat, using it to express themes of failure, loss, and redemption.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies and shows, the hero often faces great defeat before overcoming obstacles, emphasizing the journey to victory.
  • Songs about defeat are popular in various genres, resonating with listeners who relate to feelings of loss and heartbreak.
  • Reality television often dramatizes defeat, creating tension and emotional investment for viewers drawn to competition.

Translations

Translations of the word "defeated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 derrotado

🇮🇳 पराजित

🇩🇪 besiegt

🇮🇩 dikalahkan

🇺🇦 переможений

🇵🇱 pokonany

🇯🇵 敗れた (yabureta)

🇫🇷 vaincu

🇪🇸 derrotado

🇹🇷 mağlup

🇰🇷 패배한 (paebaehan)

🇸🇦 مهزوم

🇨🇿 poražený

🇸🇰 porazený

🇨🇳 失败的 (shībài de)

🇸🇮 poražen

🇮🇸 sigraður

🇰🇿 жеңілген

🇬🇪 დამარცხებული (damarcxebuli)

🇦🇿 məğlub

🇲🇽 derrotado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,536, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.