Entry Word: despair

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 utter loss of hope <the endless drought drove the farmers to despair>

Synonyms desperation, despondency, forlornness, hopelessness

Related Words blues, depression, dejection, desolation, doldrums, dolor, downheartedness, dumps, gloom, melancholy, mopes, oppression, sadness, sorrow, unhappiness; cynicism, pessimism; acceptance, resignation

Near Antonyms cheer, cheerfulness, sunniness; optimism

Antonyms hope, hopefulness

2 the state of being discouraged <the other teamʼs temporary lead caused some momentary despair> — see discouragement