defeatism
|de/feat/ism|
C1
/dɪˈfiːtɪzəm/
belief in inevitable defeat
Etymology
Etymology Information
'defeatism' originates from the French word 'défaitisme', where 'défaite' meant 'defeat'.
Historical Evolution
'défaitisme' was adopted into English as 'defeatism' in the early 20th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'the belief in inevitable defeat', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the acceptance of defeat without struggle or the belief that further effort is futile.
His defeatism was evident when he refused to continue the project.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39