downcast

American  

[doun-kast, -kahst] / ˈdaʊnˌkæst, -ˌkɑst /

adjective

1. directed downward, as the eyes.

2. dejected in spirit; depressed.

   Synonyms:

   blue, low, disconsolate, desolate, sad

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noun

1. overthrow or ruin.

2. a downward look or glance.

3. a shaft down which air passes, as into a mine (upcast ).

downcast British  

/ ˈdaʊnˌkɑːst /

adjective

1. dejected

2. (esp of the eyes) directed downwards

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noun

1. mining a ventilation shaft

2. geology another word for downthrow

Other Word Forms

• downcastly adverb
• downcastness noun

Etymology

Origin of downcast

First recorded in 1250–1300, downcast is from the Middle English word douncasten. See down ¹, cast

Example Sentences

Mr. Bryan’s stock-in-trade is the downcast ballad that seems to be recalled during a late night after a few drinks and with the TV flickering somewhere in the background.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 13, 2026

US private-sector hiring data released Wednesday painted a downcast picture of the job market in the world's biggest economy, especially among small businesses.

From Barron's • Dec. 3, 2025

The next day he was quiet and downcast.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

"The fans are disappointed. They are allowed to have an opinion on it. I heard their opinion," said a downcast Postecoglou, who was also jeered as he walked down the tunnel at full-time.

From BBC • Oct. 2, 2025

When he did speak, he kept his eyes downcast, as if he were talking to the carpet.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• discouraged
• forlorn