hopelessness

noun

Definition of hopelessnessnext
as in desperation
utter loss of hope the fans' hopelessness was dispelled as their team mounted a comeback

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 hopelessness There were scandals and heartbreak and dysfunction and, worst of all, a hopelessness. — Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 14 June 2026 But despite the colorful surroundings, there’s a pervasive hopelessness in this off-kilter world that looks a lot like our own. — ABC News, 20 May 2026 The other featured a comeback that saw hopelessness turn into jubilation. — Peter Warren, Houston Chronicle, 28 Mar. 2026 But where some might see hopelessness, Ortiz sees an opportunity for connection. — Joy Resmovits For The Trace, CBS News, 23 June 2026 Advertisement For decades, the dominant story about Watts was one of pathology and hopelessness. — Terry McDonell, Time, 21 Apr. 2026 That essay, written in 1940 — the same year Native Son was published — is suffused with profound hopelessness for what was indeed to come. — Literary Hub, 9 June 2026 For her and many other Iranians who spoke to CNN – their surnames withheld to protect their identities – the past three weeks have been filled with a sense of hopelessness and fear. — Leila Gharagozlou, CNN Money, 20 Mar. 2026 And when young people feel disconnected or believe systems are unresponsive to their daily experiences, that disconnection can deepen isolation and hopelessness. — Monica Gordon, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hopelessness
  1. desperation
  2. despair
  3. sadness
Noun
  • Their desperation comes as the Venezuelan government faces mounting criticism over its response to the crisis.
    — Isa Soares, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
  • Last week’s desperation deal for David Peterson, a one-time All-Star with the New York Mets, was only the start of a necessary overhaul.
    — Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 29 June 2026
Definition of desperation
Noun
  • Detainees had little access to recreational activities and time outside, which mental health experts say exacerbates their despair.
    — Perla Trevizo, ProPublica, 3 July 2026
  • Whether the episode amounted to anything beyond hearsay amid the ubiquitous sense of mass confusion and despair remains a question mark.
    — Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
Definition of despair
Noun
  • Nonetheless, Simón stirs up the ineffable sadness that comes with wanting answers to the mysteries of your family — and then, like it or not, receiving them.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
  • There’s a frank sadness to nearly every scene, but also a tenderness and warmth between these two unlikely friends.
    — Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 1 July 2026
Definition of sadness

Browse Nearby Words

hopeless
hopelessness
hopes
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Cite this Entry

“Hopelessness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hopelessness. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hopelessness

Nglish: Translation of hopelessness for Spanish Speakers

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