umbrage

um·brage

noun \ˈəm-brij\

Definition of UMBRAGE

1

: shade, shadow

2

: shady branches : foliage

3

a : an indistinct indication : vague suggestion : hint

b : a reason for doubt : suspicion

4

: a feeling of pique or resentment at some often fancied slight or insult <took umbrage at the speaker's remarks>

Examples of UMBRAGE

1. <took umbrage at the slightest suggestion of disrespect>

Origin of UMBRAGE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin umbraticum, neuter of umbraticus of shade, from umbratus, past participle of umbrare to shade, from umbra shade, shadow; akin to Lithuanian unksmė shadow

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to UMBRAGE

Synonyms

dudgeon, huff, miff, offense (or offence), peeve, resentment, pique

Related Words

aggravation, anger, annoyance, bother, botheration, discomfort, exasperation, frustration, grief, irritation, vexation; agitation, angriness, displeasure, distress, disturbance, indignation, irateness, ire, outrage, perturbation, upset; dander, temper; fit, pet, pouts, sulk(s), tantrum, tizzy; affront, barb, brickbat, dig, indignity, insult, put-down, slap, slight, slur

Near Antonyms

satisfaction; appeasement, mollification, pacification; contentment, delight, gratification, happiness, pleasure

See Synonym Discussion at offense