disappointment

noun

dis·​ap·​point·​ment ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯint-mənt 

1

: the act or an instance of disappointing : the state or emotion of being disappointed

2

: one that disappoints

he's a disappointment to his parents

Synonyms of disappointment

• frustration
• dismay
• dissatisfaction
• sadness

Examples of disappointment in a Sentence

She couldn't hide her disappointment.

He's a disappointment to his parents.

Recent Examples on the Web

Former Braves teammate Jonny Venters criticized the team's handling of Kimbrel, expressing disappointment that the franchise legend wasn't given more opportunities. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

The first season of Tucker’s four-year, $240 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers has been an unqualified disappointment. — Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026

Criticism and disappointment can cause unnecessary anxiety and severely cripple progress. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 21 Aug. 2026

But that disappointment comes with a whole heck of a lot of hunger for Sanchez, a senior defender who earned all-state honors last fall. — Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing disappointment

• to someone's disappointment

Rhymes for disappointment

• reappointment
• appointment
• ointment

Kids Definition

disappointment

noun

dis·​ap·​point·​ment ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯint-mənt 

1

: the act or an instance of disappointing : the state or emotion of being disappointed

2

: one that disappoints

the play was a disappointment