defeatism

[ dih-fee-tiz-uhm ]

noun

1. the attitude, policy, or conduct of a person who admits, expects, or no longer resists defeat, as because of a conviction that further struggle or effort is futile; pessimistic resignation.

defeatism

/ dɪˈfiːtɪzəm /

noun

1. a ready acceptance or expectation of defeat

Derived Forms

• deˈfeatist, nounadjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of defeatism¹

1915–20; defeat + -ism, modeled on French défaitisme

Example Sentences

Addressing supporters in his Newark constituency, he said the party should reject "defeatism" but also needed to be "grounded in realism".

From BBC

As much as we have argued against despair and defeatism, climate activists who have grown skeptical and cynical about the COP framework have every right to be disillusioned with the process.

From Los Angeles Times

“The authorities are likely also attempting to prevent any impression of defeatism, and to bolster a sense of collective responsibility for the war,” U.K. military officials said on Twitter.

From Washington Times

It came to embody Italy’s ambition and technical ingenuity, but also its political instability, bad governance, bureaucracy, corruption, debt and defeatism as delays mounted.

From New York Times

And some scientists and experts worry that their defeatism — which could undermine efforts to take action — may be just as dangerous as climate denial.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• capitulation
• resignation