When you feel downhearted, you feel discouraged and sad, like the energy and hope have drained out of you. Maybe you studied hard for a spelling bee but got eliminated in the first round, or you worked on an art project for weeks only to have it damaged right before the show. That sinking, heavy feeling in your chest is what downhearted means.

Someone who's downhearted feels genuinely discouraged, like giving up might be easier than trying again. The feeling goes deeper than a passing moment of frustration.

Being downhearted is usually temporary. After a disappointing soccer loss, you might feel downhearted on the ride home, but by the next practice, your determination returns. The feeling is real and comes naturally after setbacks.