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

Byard studies a smartphone showing his year-old wishes for a new coach, those expressed to a reporter late last season, including disappointment that far too many missteps had been improperly dealt with. —Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026

But that doesn’t mean the overall season was a complete disappointment. —Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 6 Jan. 2026

Oscarson adds that mantras can help ground us in the moment and cope with big feelings like frustration, sadness, and disappointment. —Hannah Silverman, Parents, 5 Jan. 2026

Brad Biggs' 10 thoughts after the Chicago Bears' Week 18 disappointment with a look ahead to the playoffs — and one statistic that will really open your eyes. —Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 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