English Lexicon

Hopelessness

/ˈhoʊp.ləs.nəs/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adverb
  1. 1

    In a manner that shows or expresses a lack of hope.

    "She looked hopelessly at the crumpled letter, unsure of what to do next."
  2. 2

    In a way that is beyond hope or expectation.

    "He was hopelessly lost in the unfamiliar city."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'hopelessly' is derived from the adjective 'hopeless', which combines 'hope' from Old English 'hopian' meaning 'to wish for', with the suffix '-less' indicating absence. The adverbial form '-ly' was added in Middle English, evolving to express a state of being without hope.

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