'dispiriting' originates from the Latin word 'spiritus,' meaning 'breath' or 'spirit,' combined with the prefix 'dis-' indicating negation or reversal.

'spiritus' transformed into the Old French word 'espirit,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spirit.' The prefix 'dis-' was added to form 'dispirit,' which evolved into 'dispiriting.'

Initially, it meant 'to remove spirit or courage,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'causing someone to lose enthusiasm and hope.'