Dejected: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone feels a sense of failure or disappointment, often because something they hoped for did not happen.

• After failing the entrance exam, he appeared dejected

A general term for feeling unhappy or sorrowful. It is a basic emotion that can range in intensity.

• She was sad when she heard the bad news

When someone feels sad and looks downwards, often showing it through body language, like looking down or slumping shoulders.

• He walked out of the meeting downcast, with his head hanging low

When someone has lost all hope and believes that the situation cannot improve. This term has a stronger, deeper sense of hopelessness.

• She felt despondent after months of job searching with no offers

Use this term when someone is feeling sad and down because of disappointment or failure. It’s typically not deeply severe but a noticeable mood decline.

• He felt dejected after not getting the promotion he worked so hard for

Use this term in serious contexts where the feelings of sadness are deep and long-lasting. It is often associated with a clinical condition or significant emotional disturbance.

• The news about the natural disaster deeply depressed her for weeks

This word fits when someone is feeling less confident or enthusiastic, usually because of a setback or difficulty. It's a temporary state and not as severe as 'demoralize' or 'depress'.

• The team's numerous losses began to dishearten the players

This word is best for describing a situation where someone's confidence or spirit is broken, often due to criticism or defeat. It conveys a strong effect on a person's morale.

• The constant negative feedback from his manager began to demoralize him