despair
a state in which all hope is lost or absent
How often you will meet it
Rank 1,318 of 71,295 words measured. It occurs 13,876 times across 155,168 chapters — 0.007% of every word in the library.
What it means
noun
- a state in which all hope is lost or absent also: desperation in the depths of despairthey were rescued from despair at the last minute
- the feeling that everything is wrong and nothing will turn out well they moaned in despair and dismayone harsh word would send her into the depths of despair
verb
- abandon hope; give up hope; lose heart Don't despair--help is on the way!
despair in real books
Each sentence below was written by a published author and is taken from a different book in our library. Open one to read the passage it came from, with narration.
-
These alterations of mood were the despair and joy of Ethan Frome.
Ethan Frome · Edith Wharton · Chapter 1
-
He felt so overwhelmed by despair that he thought for an instant of putting an end to his life.
The Yellow Fairy Book: The Grateful Beasts · World Traditions (Celtic, Norse, Asian & Persian) · Chapter 1
-
Augustinus is in despair for the sin he has committed in turning to look after a dog who was running.
The Dream · Émile Zola · Chapter 1
-
In despair, at last, Nicholas said 'twas Cobley's for seven hundred pounds, well knowing the price ran about three hundred too high.
The Torch and Other Tales · Eden Phillpotts · Chapter 1
-
VI At last Mme. Favoral found herself alone with her children and free to give herself up to the most frightful despair.
Other People's Money · Emile Gaboriau · Chapter 1