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Downhearted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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downhearted

[ˌdaʊnˈhɑːrtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

Downhearted refers to a feeling of sadness or dejection. It signifies being low in spirits or feeling discouraged and is often a temporary emotional state.

Synonyms

dejected, despondent, disheartened, sad.

Examples of usage

  • After hearing the bad news, she felt downhearted.
  • He was downhearted about failing the exam.
  • The team's loss left the fans feeling downhearted.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Downhearted characters often reflect the emotional struggles of real people, making them relatable in novels and plays.
  • Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, used downhearted figures to evoke sympathy and reveal deeper themes of hope and redemption.

Psychology

  • Feeling downhearted can be linked to temporary mood changes caused by stress, loss, or disappointment.
  • Psychologists view emotional lows as part of the human experience, often encouraging mindfulness as a way to combat these feelings.

Pop Culture

  • Many songs capture the essence of being downhearted, resonating with listeners experiencing similar feelings, such as 'Tears in Heaven' by Eric Clapton.
  • Movies often portray downhearted characters who embark on journeys of self-discovery, reinforcing the importance of hope.

Coping Strategies

  • Expressing emotions through journaling or talking with friends can alleviate feelings of being downhearted.
  • Engaging in physical activities or creative hobbies is often recommended to shift focus and improve mood.

Origin of 'downhearted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'downhearted' combines 'down', meaning 'low or depressed', and 'hearted', referring to emotions.
  • This term has been in use since the early 19th century, becoming more popular in literature and poetry to express melancholy.

The term 'downhearted' combines the word 'down' which suggests a lower position or state, and 'hearted,' derived from the Old English 'heorte,' meaning heart. The etymology reflects a state of mind that is 'low at heart.' The word has been in use since the early 19th century, illustrating the emotional struggle and the sense of loss associated with feelings of discouragement or despair. Its usage in literature and common speech highlights the universal and timeless nature of human emotions and responses to life's challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,932, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.