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Depressive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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depressive

[dɪˈprɛsɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

Depressive refers to a state characterized by a general sense of unhappiness, sadness, or low mood. It often describes conditions where someone experiences persistent feelings of despair or hopelessness. This term is frequently associated with mental health disorders, particularly major depressive disorder.

Synonyms

despondent, downcast, melancholic, sorrowful.

Examples of usage

  • She has been feeling depressive thoughts lately.
  • The film's depressive themes resonated with many viewers.
  • He was diagnosed with a depressive disorder last year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Clinical depression is more than just feeling sad; it can affect how you think, feel, and act daily.
  • Symptoms can include a loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep patterns, and feelings of hopelessness.
  • Over 264 million people worldwide are affected by depressive disorders, impacting individuals across all demographics.

Literature

  • Many authors, including Virginia Woolf and Ernest Hemingway, explored depressive themes in their works, reflecting their personal struggles.
  • Classic literature often portrays characters experiencing depression, highlighting the emotional battles faced during tough times.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and films frequently tackle themes of depression, bringing awareness and sparking conversations around mental health.
  • Many celebrities have openly discussed their battles with depression, helping to destigmatize the condition and encourage others to seek help.

Science

  • Research suggests that a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors contribute to depressive disorders.
  • Studies show that exercise and healthy social connections can significantly improve symptoms of depression.

Origin of 'depressive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin 'deprimere', which means 'to press down', reflecting how it can feel like being pushed under water.
  • The suffix '-ive' indicates a characteristic, so 'depressive' describes a condition of being down or low in spirits.

The word 'depressive' is derived from the Latin root 'depressus', which means 'to press down'. This Latin term is a compound of 'de-' meaning 'down' and 'premere', meaning 'to press'. The adoption of 'depressive' into the English language traces back to the mid-19th century when it was used primarily in medical contexts to describe psychological conditions that caused a significant lowering of mood. Over time, the usage of the term expanded, and it became a common descriptor in both clinical and everyday settings, often referring to various forms of sadness, as well as specific mental health diagnoses such as depression. The evolution of the word reflects a growing awareness and understanding of mental health and the emotional states associated with it.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,542, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.