Despair

usgb/dɪˈsper/
noun

A strong feeling of losing hope or being without hope.

He felt complete despair when he lost his job.
Visual representation of "despair" - A strong feeling of losing hope or being without hope.

Often appears as...

  • despair of human nature
  • in utter despair
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "despair"
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Emotional Weight

Despair conveys a deep, often overwhelming emotion, more intense than just sadness or discouragement.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
He was in such despair that he couldn't find the will to get out of bed.
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Not Permanent

Though strong, despair is an emotion that someone may eventually overcome, even if it seems all-encompassing at the time.

Illustration for Not Permanent
After months of despair, she found a new job that lifted her spirits.
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Cultural Expression

Expression of despair can vary by culture; in some, it may be private, while in others, more open.

Illustration for Cultural Expression
His despair was evident to everyone as he spoke publicly about his struggles.
Visual representation of the word "Despair"

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