'despondent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'despondere,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'spondere' meant 'to promise.'

'despondere' transformed into the French word 'despondant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'despondent' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to give up or lose hope,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in low spirits from loss of hope or courage.'