Forlorn: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe a sense of deep sadness and hopelessness, typically because someone feels alone or neglected.

• She felt forlorn after her friends moved away.

This word is used to describe a place that is empty, barren, and devoid of life or activity. It can also describe a person who feels extremely sad and lonely.

• The desert was a desolate expanse of sand and rock.
• After the loss of his wife, he felt completely desolate.

This word describes someone who feels sadness because they are alone or have few friends or companions. It is a more general and less intense term than 'forlorn'.

• He felt lonely in the new city, far from his family.

This word describes something or someone that has been left behind or deserted. It can be used for places, objects, or even people, and often carries a strong negative connotation.

• The abandoned house stood in the middle of the field.

(Note: Duplication) As above, used to describe someone who appears lonely, abandoned, or in a state of hopelessness.

• She looked forlorn sitting alone on the bench, her dreams shattered.
• The forlorn puppy wandered the streets in search of its owner.

Used when an effort or action is pointless and has no chance of succeeding.

• It was a futile attempt to fix the old car; it was beyond repair.
• Their cries for help were futile; no one could hear them in the storm.

Used when someone is in great need or urgency, often acting in extreme ways due to lack of options.

• He made a desperate attempt to save his sinking boat.
• The refugees were desperate for food and water.

Implies an inevitable and often tragic outcome, used when failure or disaster seems certain.

• The mission was doomed from the start due to poor planning.
• He felt doomed as he walked into the courtroom.