despair
noun
loss of hope; hopelessness.
had despaired
-
past perfectof despair.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Dr. Rachel Easterwood, who works the night shift in the I.C.U., had despaired at how little could be done for some patients.
From New York Times ● May 3, 2020
By the mid-1970s, the SDS had broken apart, and many young people had despaired that peaceful change - or any change - was possible.
From Washington Times ● Oct. 24, 2016
By the mid-1970s, the SDS had broken apart, and many young people had despaired that peaceful change — or any change — was possible.
From US News ● Oct. 24, 2016
But by the time he got to her, she had despaired of ever being able to be free.
From Slate ● Jul. 14, 2015
Even Grandfather had despaired of trying, and that’s why they were in America.
From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord
