depression

word

/dɪˈpɹɛʃən/
di-PRESH-uhn
/dɪpɹˈɛʃən/
di-PRESH-uhn

Definition

Depression is a serious mental health condition in which a person feels deeply sad, empty, or without energy for a long time. It can also mean a period of economic weakness or a low area in a surface or land.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, 'depression' refers to the mental health condition, and in everyday use that is usually the main meaning. Be careful not to use it lightly for normal temporary sadness; common phrases include 'clinical depression', 'suffer from depression', and 'major depression'.

Example Sentences

She talked to a doctor about her depression.

basic

The country faced economic depression after the war.

basic

Rainwater collected in a small depression in the ground.

basic

He’s been open about living with depression for years.

natural

People often confuse depression with just having a bad week.

natural

The report warns that the housing market could slide into depression.

natural