The word "downcast" is spelled with four letters, "d-o-w-n-c-a-s-t." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /daʊnkæst/. The first syllable "down" is pronounced as "daʊn," with an "ow" sound. The second syllable "cast" is pronounced as "kæst," with a short "a" sound. Together, the word is pronounced as "daʊnkæst". "Downcast" is an adjective that describes someone who is feeling sad or disheartened. It can also refer to a person's gaze, which is downward and lacking in energy.
Downcast is an adjective that describes a person's facial expression or attitude when they are feeling sad, dejected, or melancholic. When someone is downcast, they may have a downward gaze, furrowed brows, or a general appearance of sadness. This term can also be used to describe their overall demeanor, indicating that they are feeling low or disheartened.
In addition to describing a person's appearance or demeanor, "downcast" can also refer to an object or a part of the body that is facing or pointing downward. For example, a downcast eye may indicate shyness or a lack of confidence, while a downcast head may suggest submission or shame.
The term "downcast" can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation or event that causes someone to feel sad or dispirited. For instance, if someone receives disappointing news, their expression may become downcast, reflecting their feelings of unhappiness or defeat.
Overall, the word "downcast" denotes a sense of sadness, dejection, or low spirits. It captures the physical and emotional state of a person when they appear or feel melancholic, and it can also be used to describe anything that is pointing or directed downward.
Dejected; directed to the ground.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "downcast" originated in the 17th century and has its roots in two separate elements. The first part of the word, "down", comes from the Old English word "dūne", which means "downward" or "from a higher to a lower position". The second part, "cast", comes from the Middle English word "casten", meaning "to throw". In combination, "downcast" describes the action or appearance of throwing one's eyes downward or looking sad and dejected.