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crestfallen

adjective

/ˈkrɛstˌfɔːlən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of crestfallen

Deeply disappointed, disheartened, or dejected due to the failure of one's expectations or hopes.
"His crestfallen demeanor showed that he had lost his confidence."

Detailed meaning of crestfallen

When someone is described as crestfallen, it implies that they have experienced a significant setback or defeat that has left them feeling deflated and demoralized. This term often conveys a sense of visible disappointment, as the person's demeanor may reflect a drop in their spirits, and their posture may slump. It's as if their emotional "crest" or high point has fallen, leading to a pronounced and noticeable sense of gloom or sadness. "Crestfallen" is a powerful word that captures the profound emotional impact of dashed hopes or unfavorable outcomes on an individual's demeanor and outlook.

Example sentences containing crestfallen

1. After the defeat, the team was crestfallen, heads hung low.
2. Her crestfallen expression spoke volumes about her failed exam.
3. He returned from the job interview feeling crestfallen.
4. The news of the canceled vacation left them crestfallen.
5. The actor was crestfallen when he didn't get the lead role.
6. The student's crestfallen look showed her disappointment.

History and etymology of crestfallen

The adjective 'crestfallen' has its etymological origins in the imagery of a fallen crest or crestfalling. The word 'crest' in this context refers to the comb or tuft of feathers on the head of a bird, particularly a rooster or a bird of prey. When a bird is dejected or defeated, it often lowers or droops its crest. In Old English, the term 'criste' or 'cresta' referred to this part of a bird's plumage. Over time, 'crestfallen' came to describe a person who is deeply disappointed, disheartened, or dejected due to the failure of one's expectations or hopes, as if their own inner crest or spirit had drooped in a similar manner. The etymology of 'crestfallen' vividly illustrates the visual metaphor of a fallen crest to convey the emotional state of someone who has experienced a letdown or setback.

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Further usage examples of crestfallen

1. His crestfallen demeanor revealed the impact of rejection.
2. The chef was crestfallen when the soufflé collapsed.
3. Their crestfallen faces told the story of the lost championship.
4. She tried to hide her crestfallen emotions with a smile.
5. The explorer was crestfallen after not finding the treasure.
6. His crestfallen spirit needed a boost after the setback.
7. The team's crestfallen captain addressed the loss with grace.
8. The artist was crestfallen when her masterpiece was stolen.
9. Despite their efforts, they were left crestfallen by the news.
10. He felt crestfallen when his proposal was rejected.
11. The scientist was crestfallen by the failed experiment.
12. Her crestfallen mood improved after a friend's comforting words.
13. The athlete's crestfallen expression mirrored his defeat.
14. The students were crestfallen when the field trip was canceled.
15. His crestfallen expression revealed the bad news he had received.
16. She was crestfallen when she found out she didn't get the job.
17. The team was crestfallen after losing the championship game.
18. Her crestfallen face showed that she was struggling with her self-esteem.
19. The crestfallen look in his eyes told her he had been rejected.
20. The student was crestfallen after receiving a failing grade.
21. The actor was crestfallen when he learned he didn't get the part.
22. His crestfallen posture showed that he had lost his motivation.
23. The athlete was crestfallen after missing the winning shot.
24. The child was crestfallen when she didn't win the spelling bee.
25. His crestfallen expression turned to determination as he decided to try again.