demoralize
verb (used with object)
to deprive (a person or persons) of spirit, courage, discipline, etc.; destroy the morale of.
demoralizing
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present participleof demoralize.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Still, he said, it’s been demoralizing to have so many come back.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 9, 2026
The findings about the bat bridges were demoralizing for Altringham, who during his career appeared at several public inquiries into the impact of road-building projects on bats.
From Slate ● Apr. 28, 2026
Golf became repetitive, and demoralizing, because I couldn’t score as low as I used to.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 8, 2026
Inside the Justice Department, the resolution was demoralizing: “He’s admitted he owes money, and we get money, but everything else about it stinks to high heaven,” said a current DOJ official familiar with the case.
From Salon ● Jan. 23, 2026
Normally, a visit of any kind lifted our spirits but the visit of Mr. Hynning was demoralizing.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
