demoralized
UK[dɪˈmɒrəlaɪzd]US[dɪˈmɔːrəlaɪzd]
adj
Having lost confidence, hope, and courage; dispirited.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
moral
ized
de
remove
moral
morale
ized
made into a state
Etymology
The word demoralized is built upon the concept of "morale," which entered English from French in the 18th century, itself derived from the Latin moralis (pertaining to custom or character). The prefix de-, of Latin origin, acts as a reversive force, implying a stripping away or reduction. The suffix -ized converts the action into a descriptive state. Thus, the literal construction "having had morale removed" perfectly captures the modern abstract meaning of being disheartened or deprived of spirit and determination. This term gained specific military and psychological currency in the 19th century to describe the crippling effect on troop spirit.
Analysis
Structure: de (remove) + moral (morale) + ized (made into a state)
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "down from, off, away, completely," used here to indicate removal or reversal.
- moral: From the Latin root moralis (relating to manners or character), here specifically referencing "morale" (the confidence and spirit of a person or group).
- ized: An English suffix forming adjectives from verbs, meaning "made, characterized by, or in the state of."
Examples
After several failed attempts, the team felt utterly demoralized.
The constant criticism from her boss left her feeling demoralized and unappreciated.
The demoralized troops retreated from their positions.