downcast

adjective

down·​cast ˈdau̇n-ˌkast How to pronounce downcast (audio)
Synonyms of downcastnext
1
: low in spirit : dejected
2
: directed downward
with downcast eyes

Synonyms of downcast

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Examples of downcast in a Sentence

There were a lot of downcast faces in the crowd. her downcast gaze made us realize that she was shy
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There also is an approach that has proven uplifting during this somewhat downcast time for the Heat. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 23 Nov. 2022 By contrast, Emilia, in her mid-thirties, has a face that lights up with sunny enthusiasm and, just as quickly, turns downcast. — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 May 2026 In one video, irate workers surrounded a silent, downcast manager in a conference room to voice grievances and question their Covid test results. — Fortune, 23 Nov. 2022 In one of the film’s most downcast moments, Larry, now absolutely obliterated on whiskey, sits in the coatcheck with Weiland for a heart-to-heart. — Michael Cuby, Them., 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for downcast

Word History

First Known Use

1521, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of downcast was in 1521

Rhymes for downcast

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Browse Nearby Words

down card
downcast
downcastness
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Cite this Entry

“Downcast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downcast. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

downcast

adjective
down·​cast -ˌkast How to pronounce downcast (audio)
1
: being in a state of lowered confidence or courage : dejected
2
: directed down
a downcast glance

More from Merriam-Webster on downcast

Nglish: Translation of downcast for Spanish Speakers

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