depressed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
depressed Word Meanings
- Feeling sad and down; low in mood.
- Having a persistently low mood or despondent attitude.
- Describing an area or economy that is weak or in decline.
depressed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
depressed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈprɛst/
US
/dɪˈprɛst/
depressed Word Etymology
Root decomposition: de- means down + press as the root; the -ed suffix marks a past participle/adjective form. Historical origin: from Latin deprimere 'to press down' (de- + premere), borrowed into Old French deprimé and then into English as depress/ depressed. Memory image: picture a heavy weight pressing down on your head, pinning your thoughts and mood to the ground.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I sit and set my shoulders, a slow move that travels from neck to chest. The room seems dimmer, my energy shifts and I keep the day moving with effort even though the mood won’t lift. I push air out and try to adjust my thoughts, but the weight stays, like a quiet current pulling me down. I stay in the rhythm, letting the feeling sit there, and it becomes part of how I tell others I am not okay.
Real Context
Depressed is an adjective describing a mood that is very sad or low, as in a person who seems down after bad news. It can also describe someone who appears withdrawn or lacking energy for a period. In addition, depressed can refer to areas, economies, or markets that are weak, struggling, or in decline. The word comes from de- meaning down and press meaning to push, originally from Latin deprimere and entering English via Old French deprimé. Memory image: picture a heavy weight pressing down on your head, pinning your thoughts and energy to the ground. Use it with mood verbs, not for fleeting sadness in casual talk.
Usage Reminders
- Feel, become, or look depressed when describing mood
- Use with a persistent sadness, not a minor bad day
- Describe economy or area as depressed rather than 'really sad'
- Avoid using depressed to mean physically tired or bored
- Common collocations: depressed mood, depressed region, depressed economy
Common Misconceptions
- Assuming depressed always means clinical depression
- Thinking depressed only refers to mood, not economy or place
- Confusing depressive with depressed; using depressive instead
- Believing it describes temporary sadness for a few hours
- Using depressed with physical exhaustion rather than mood
Thinking Differences
In English, depressed commonly covers both mood and non-mood uses (economy/area), but learners often mix up when to use depressed vs. depressive or depression. Focus on collocations and duration.
Learning Tips
- Memorize the root: de- (down) + press (to push).
- Link depressed to long-lasting moods, not short sadness.
- Use with adjectives: depressed mood, depressed economy.
- Pair with verbs feel, become, look.
- Differentiate from depression (noun) and depressive (adj).
- Practice with real-life contexts (news, news about economies).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'depressed' correctly?
A.She was laughing and smiling all day.
B.They were celebrating a birthday party.
C.He felt depressed after failing the test.
D.The sun was shining brightly.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'depressed'?
A.Joyful
B.Optimistic
C.Miserable
D.Cheerful
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'depressed'?
A.Despondent
B.Gloomy
C.Melancholy
D.Elated
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone feel 'depressed'?
A.Winning a lottery
B.Getting a promotion
C.Going on a vacation
D.Failing an important exam
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App