crestfallen

[ krest-faw-luhn ]

adjective

1. dejected; dispirited; discouraged.
2. having a drooping crest or head.

crestfallen

/ ˈkrɛstˌfɔːlən /

adjective

1. dejected, depressed, or disheartened

Derived Forms

• ˈcrestˌfallenly, adverb

Other Words From

• crestfallen·ly adverb
• crestfallen·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crestfallen¹

First recorded in 1580–90; crest + fallen

Example Sentences

The Americans were jubilant at the finish, having won the title for a 10th time, and the French were crestfallen, but a crushed atmosphere soon turned to cheers of support.

From BBC

A sensational round of 63 - and he was crestfallen.

From BBC

And despite having an elaborate, curling centipede inked on his face and neck, he’s crestfallen that Bailey would let a friend cut off her locks before the big day.

From Los Angeles Times

Out in the audience, we’re watching the hopeful faces of those people, who become crestfallen as it becomes clear that whatever they want, no matter how small, is impossible, for no real reason at all.

From New York Times

The initial video from a police lapel camera shows a crestfallen Gutierrez-Reed shortly after the fatal shooting.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• dejected
• despondent
• discouraged
• dispirited