Definitions

1. noun

a feeling or attitude of pessimism and lack of confidence, especially in the face of adversity or failure

“The politician’s defeatism about the country’s economy led to widespread panic among investors.”

2. noun

a policy or attitude of giving up or surrendering in the face of opposition or adversity

“The union’s defeatism in negotiations with management led to a prolonged and bitter strike.”

3. noun

a tendency to attribute failure to internal or external circumstances rather than one’s own actions or abilities

“The coach criticized the team’s defeatism, saying it was a lack of effort rather than bad luck that led to their losses.”