This region became a depressed area right after the coal mines were closed because they were the main source of income for its residents.
Which of the following is the meaning of the word "depressed" as used in this sentence above?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct meaning of the word is "impoverished", as it portrays the idea that the region lost its main source of income.
"Gloomy" is not the best choice for the context of this sentence. Although people may be saddened by the loss of the mines, the sentence refers to the economic effects of the closing which was that the area became impoverished.
"Flattened" is not the correct meaning, as it would suggest that all of the region has been situated lower than the general surface.
"Encouraged" is not the correct meaning, as it would suggest the region is happy they've lost their main economic power.

This Region Became a Depressed Area Right After the Coal