Despair meaning

What does “despair” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“despair” is a noun and verb with 3 meanings. Its most common meaning is: a state in which all hope is lost or absent.

despair

noun

  1. a state in which all hope is lost or absent

    “in the depths of despair”

    “they were rescued from despair at the last minute”

    Synonymsdesperation
  2. the feeling that everything is wrong and nothing will turn out well

    “they moaned in despair and dismay”

    “one harsh word would send her into the depths of despair”

    Oppositeshope

verb

  1. abandon hope; give up hope; lose heart

    “Don't despair--help is on the way!”

    Oppositeshope

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University