Pronunciation

/dɪˈspɛər/

Definitions

Noun

Despair: A feeling of hopelessness, loss of all confidence, or complete lack of motivation, typically because of a difficult situation or failure. Example: “She was overwhelmed with despair after losing her job.”

Verb

Despair: To feel or give up hope, often in extreme circumstances. Example: “The trapped hiker began to despair of ever being rescued.”

Adjective

Desperate: Showing a great need for something; having no alternative or hope. Example: “In their desperate attempt to escape, they risked everything.”

Phrases

• “Despairing cries” denote sorrowful or anguished sounds.
• “Feeling hopeless” conveys a state of deep despair.
• “Despair sets in” indicates the onset of overwhelming hopelessness.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “She sank into a deep despair after her husband’s sudden illness.”
• Verb: “His friends tried to reassure him, but he was despairing about his chances of winning the competition.”
• Adjective: “They were in such a desperate situation that they decided to take a chance on the unknown.”

Synonyms

• Desolation
• Despairing
• Despairingly
• Helplessness
• Despairful
• Hopelessness
• Despairing agony
• Despairing resignation

Antonyms

• Hope
• Optimism
• Confidence
• Relief
• Euphoria
• Fortitude