crest-fallen
Definition
- Adjective:
- Dejected or dispirited: "crest-fallen" describes a state of being sad, disappointed, or humiliated, often after a failure or setback. The term originates from the image of a rooster or bird with its comb (crest) drooping, indicating defeat or low spirits.
Usage Examples
- (He appeared deeply disappointed and defeated.)
- (She felt humiliated and disheartened by the refusal.)
Advanced Usage
"to be crest-fallen": to be in a state of visible discouragement.
- The team was crest-fallen after the last-minute goal. (They showed clear signs of disappointment.)
"a crest-fallen expression": a facial appearance showing sadness or shame.
- He wore a crest-fallen expression when he realized his mistake. (His face revealed regret and low spirits.)
Variants and Related Words
Crest (noun): the comb or tuft on a bird's head; also, a symbol of pride or achievement.
- The rooster's crest stood upright when it crowed. (The bird's head ornament was raised.)
Fallen (adjective): having dropped or descended; also, morally degraded.
- The fallen leaves covered the ground. (Leaves that have dropped from trees.)
Crestfallenly (adverb): in a crest-fallen manner.
- He crestfallenly admitted his error. (He spoke with visible dejection.)
Synonyms
- Dejected: sad and depressed; in low spirits.
- Dispirited: having lost enthusiasm or hope.
- Downcast: directed downward, especially in sadness.
- Disheartened: having lost confidence or determination.
Related Idioms
To have one's tail between one's legs: to feel defeated or humiliated.
- After the argument, he left with his tail between his legs, looking crest-fallen. (He departed in shame.)
To be in the doldrums: to be in a state of low spirits or inactivity.
- She was in the doldrums after the bad news, much like a crest-fallen person. (She felt dull and sad.)