English Meaning & Definitions
Sad, disappointed, or dispirited, especially after a sudden loss or failure.
- “He looked crestfallen when he realized he hadn't been selected for the team.”
- “Despite the crestfallen expressions of the staff, the manager remained optimistic about the company's future.”
English Synonyms & Near Equivalents
English Antonyms & Opposites
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “crestfallen”.
Originating in the late 16th century, the term is derived from the practice of cockfighting. When a fighting cock was defeated or intimidated, its 'crest' (the comb on its head) would droop or fall. The term was later applied metaphorically to humans to describe a state of dejection or loss of spirit.
Imagine a proud rooster (with a high crest) suddenly losing a fight and letting its head droop; it is literally 'crest-fallen'.
Frequently Asked Questions About “crestfallen”
1. What is the meaning of “crestfallen” in English?
In English, crestfallen (adjective) is defined as: “Sad, disappointed, or dispirited, especially after a sudden loss or failure.”.
2. How do you use “crestfallen” in a sentence?
“He looked crestfallen when he realized he hadn't been selected for the team.”
3. What are English synonyms of “crestfallen”?
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “crestfallen”?
Originating in the late 16th century, the term is derived from the practice of cockfighting. When a fighting cock was defeated or intimidated, its 'crest' (the comb on its head) would droop or fall. The term was later applied metaphorically to humans to describe a state of dejection or loss of spirit.
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A specific duration of time equivalent to one hour and forty-six minutes.