defeatism

noun

Definition of defeatismnext
as in pessimism

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of defeatism Yet Hiller’s latest equivocating mea culpa, with the now-familiar language of hardship and defeatism so unbecoming of a professional hockey team, rang unconvincing. — Andrew Knoll, Daily News, 13 Jan. 2026 And yet, as the deadline loomed, there were also legitimate reasons to temper such defeatism. — Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 1 Oct. 2025 By contrast, maybe such language engenders a sense of defeatism, a belief in the inevitability of collapse which is collectively paralyzing. — Ed Simon september 24, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2025 This state of mind is defeatism in disguise, capitulating to discord, disorder, and defeat without even joining the battle. — Karen Neff, Christian Science Monitor, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for defeatism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defeatism
  1. pessimism
  2. resignation
Noun
  • And that pessimism creates a barrier that keeps us from reaching out more often.
    — Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026
  • With all that taken into account, there is growing pessimism at the Barcelona end over their chances of signing Alvarez by the end of the window.
    — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 5 Aug. 2026
Definition of pessimism
Noun
  • The probe was suspended following his resignation on July 7, and was relisted as active on Friday following the election result.
    — Jenni Reid, CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Resignations The 119th Congress also saw several resignations.
    — Chad de Guzman, Time, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of resignation

Browse Nearby Words

defeating
defeatism
defeatist
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Cite this Entry

“Defeatism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defeatism. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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