discourage

Definition

To extinguish the courage of; to dishearten; to depress the spirits of; to deprive of confidence; to deject.

Etymology

From Middle French descourager (modern French décourager), from Old French descouragier, from des- and corage. By surface analysis, dis- + courage.

Example Sentences

• "Don't be discouraged by the amount of work left to do: you'll finish it in good time."
• "Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged."
• "Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can."