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Definition of discouragement

discouragement

/dɪsˈkɝː.ɪdʒ.mənt/
dis · cour · age · ment
Adverb:discouragingly
•
Plural:discouragements
•
Adjective:discouraged
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discouragement Lexical Profile

discouragement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A loss of confidence, enthusiasm, or hope; a feeling of being disheartened.

Example

"Despite her initial discouragement after failing the exam, she resolved to study harder for the retake."

2

An act of trying to prevent something or persuade someone against doing something, or an obstacle or factor that serves as a deterrent.

Example

"High registration fees can act as a significant discouragement to potential participants."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for discouragement

• Rhymes for discouragement

• Nearby Words

discountable
discounter
discourage
discouragement
discourager
discouraging
discouragingly

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Old French 'descoragement', derived from 'descoragier' ('to dishearten'), ultimately tracing back to Latin 'cor' ('heart').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Discouragement. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/discouragement
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