Defeatist

Pronunciation: /dɪˈfiːtɪst/

Definitions of defeatist

adjective showing a tendency to expect failure or accept it in a gloomy or overly submissive way

Example Sentences

A1 She had a defeatist attitude when faced with challenges.

A2 The defeatist mindset of the team affected their performance in the game.

B1 His defeatist outlook on life prevented him from taking risks.

B2 Despite their defeatist beliefs, they managed to overcome the obstacles and succeed.

C1 The defeatist nature of the project manager impacted the team's morale.

C2 Her defeatist attitude was a hindrance to achieving their goals.

Examples of defeatist in a Sentence

formal The defeatist attitude of the team members was evident in their lack of effort during the game.

informal I can't stand hanging out with defeatist people who always bring negative energy.

slang Don't be such a defeatist, have some faith in yourself!

figurative Her defeatist mindset was like a dark cloud hanging over her, preventing her from seeing any silver linings.

Grammatical Forms of defeatist

• past tense: defeated
• plural: defeatists
• comparative: more defeatist
• superlative: most defeatist
• present tense: defeatist
• future tense: will be defeatist
• perfect tense: have been defeatist
• continuous tense: being defeatist
• singular: defeatist
• positive degree: defeatist
• infinitive: to defeatist
• gerund: defeating
• participle: defeated

Origin and Evolution of defeatist

First Known Use: 1916 year

Language of Origin: French

Story behind the word: The word 'defeatist' originated from the French word 'défaitiste', which is derived from the past participle of the verb 'défaire' meaning 'to undo' or 'to defeat'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used during World War I to describe individuals who were perceived as lacking in determination or morale in the face of defeat, the word 'defeatist' has evolved to encompass a broader sense of pessimism or resignation in the face of challenges or adversity.