downcast

[ doun-kast, -kahst ]

adjective

1. directed downward, as the eyes.
2. dejected in spirit; depressed.

   Synonyms: blue, low, disconsolate, desolate, sad

noun

1. overthrow or ruin.
2. a downward look or glance.
3. a shaft down which air passes, as into a mine ( upcast ).

downcast

/ ˈdaʊnˌkɑːst /

adjective

1. dejected
2. (esp of the eyes) directed downwards

noun

1. mining a ventilation shaft
2. geology another word for downthrow

Other Words From

• downcastly adverb
• downcastness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of downcast¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, downcast is from the Middle English word douncasten. See down ¹, cast

Example Sentences

Morrow, who sat with his eyes downcast throughout the hearing, had at first denied all the charges, but eventually admitted the blackmail.

From BBC

Much has been written about the Harris campaign’s softness among Black men, Hispanic men, and young men in general, a downcast cohort without much trust in the political process.

From Slate

It turns out that the dour, downcast approach of Republicans has a shelf-life, and it has reached its sell-by date.

From Salon

The morale was low on Tuesday after a particularly intense practice at the Galen Center, with Sparks players eyes downcast amid looks of frustration as head coach Curt Miller told them they needed to do better.

From Los Angeles Times

But Mr. Trump himself, a candidate of unusual personality and sometimes impenetrable psyche, seemed to be willing himself forward, moving from downcast to defiant within a day.

From New York Times

Related Words

• discouraged
• forlorn