depression
15 synonyms and 0 antonyms for depression, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A mental health condition marked by persistent sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in life.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use depression
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
When talking about mental health, use it thoughtfully; it refers to a real, diagnosable condition, not just everyday sadness.
Etymology
From Old French depression, from Latin depressio, built on deprimere, "to press down."
Full origin of depression →Frequently asked questions
What does “depression” mean?
The word “depression” means a mental health condition marked by persistent sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in life. In plain terms, a pressing-down — used for a mental health condition, an economic slump, a dip in land, or a low-pressure weather system.
How do you pronounce “depression”?
“Depression” is pronounced dih-PREH-shuhn (/dɪˈpɹɛʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “depression” in a sentence?
Here is “depression” used in a sentence: “He started therapy after being diagnosed with depression.”
What part of speech is “depression”?
“Depression” is a noun.
Where does the word “depression” come from?
The word “depression” comes from Latin. From Old French depression, from Latin depressio, built on deprimere, "to press down.".
Is “depression” a common word?
“Depression” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “depression” have?
“Depression” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mental health condition marked by persistent sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in life.
What is the difference between depression and sadness?
Sadness is a normal, temporary emotion, usually triggered by a specific event and easing with time. Depression is a persistent mental health condition marked by lasting sadness, low energy, and loss of interest that continues for weeks or longer and interferes with daily life, often without an obvious cause.
Can depression be treated?
Yes. Depression is a treatable condition, and many people recover or manage it well. Common approaches include talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, medication like antidepressants, and lifestyle support involving exercise, sleep, and social connection. Anyone struggling should speak to a doctor or qualified professional for proper assessment and care.
What are the types of depression?
There are several forms. Major depressive disorder involves intense symptoms over weeks; persistent depressive disorder is milder but longer-lasting. Others include seasonal affective disorder, linked to darker months, postnatal depression after childbirth, and the low phases of bipolar disorder. A qualified professional can diagnose which type someone is experiencing.
Is depression a mental illness?
Yes. Depression is recognised as a common but serious mental health condition, not a personal weakness or a mood someone can simply choose to shake off. It affects thoughts, feelings, energy, and physical health. Because it is a genuine medical condition, it responds to treatment and support rather than willpower alone.