dispiriting
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪsˈpɪrɪtɪŋ/
KK: /dɪsˈpɪrɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing a feeling of sadness or loss of hope; making someone feel less cheerful or motivated.
Example
The constant rain during the vacation was quite dispiriting for everyone.
Conversation
I felt really dispiriting when I saw the news today.
Yeah, it can be tough to stay positive with everything going on.
I just wish things would improve; it’s so draining.
I know what you mean. We have to find ways to lift our spirits.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
disheartening
dismaying
depressing
Antonyms
encouraging
uplifting
inspiring
verb
Definition
To make someone feel less hopeful or enthusiastic.
Example
The constant rain was dispiriting for the outdoor event.
Tense Forms
Past: dispirited
Past Participle: dispirited
Conversation
I felt a bit dispiriting when I saw the weather forecast for the weekend.
Yeah, rain can really ruin your plans.
Exactly! I was hoping to go hiking.
Root Explanation
Dispiriting → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "spirit" (from Latin "spiritus", meaning breath or spirit). The word "dispiriting" means causing a loss of spirit or enthusiasm, effectively taking away one's motivation or cheer.
Memory Tip
Think of 'dis-' meaning 'away' and 'spirit' referring to one's enthusiasm or energy — so dispiriting means taking away someone's spirit.
Visually Confused Words
inspiriting
spiriting
inspiritingly
unspiriting
inspiring
diaspirin