DEFEATISTS Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

defeatists

noun

plural of defeatist

as in realists

one who emphasizes bad aspects or conditions and expects the worst we told her that if she was going to be such a defeatist, she should keep her thoughts to herself

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 defeatists Hegseth largely declined to provide specifics, instead denouncing critics as defeatists, questioning their patriotism and insisting the mission had broad public support. — Nik Popli, Time, 29 Apr. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for defeatists

Noun

But should cynics in the industry be tapping the brakes a little, to make sure everybody believes Dean is all that, before giving her an official coronation?

— Chris Willman, Variety, 17 July 2026
But weddings also bring out the cynics, and there are a lot of people who cannot be swayed by a wedding.

— Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 16 July 2026

Definition of cynics

Noun

Though the pessimists should be considered carefully, the latest Nobel laureates—awarded their prizes for their on work long-term growth—are optimistic.

— Bill Conerly, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
But pessimists worry that companies are deferring the cost of massive spending, while front-loading the benefits.

— Sarah Min, CNBC, 14 July 2026

Definition of pessimists

Browse Nearby Words

defeatist

defeatists

defeats

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Defeatists.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defeatists. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of defeatists

noun

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

comely

Popular in Grammar & Usage

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

Merriam-Webster’s Great Big List of Words You Love to Hate

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

Why does English have so many silent letters?

Your vs. You're: How to Use Them Correctly

Popular in Wordplay

Dutch Treat and French Leave: Eight Place-Based Compounds

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

The Longest Long Words List

The Words of the Week - Jul. 31

Even More Bird Names that Sound Like Insults (and Sometimes Are)

Popular

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

Dutch Treat and French Leave: Eight Place-Based Compounds

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

Games & Quizzes