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

Do not turn disappointment into a silent performance review or a list of flaws. — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 2 Aug. 2026

And despite Mario’s best efforts to control the situation, White Nights will end in disappointment for one of its central characters. — Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2026

In Argentina, the banner became a sensation, eclipsing for many both the disappointment of the team's defeat to Spain in the final and the flood of hostile commentary. — ABC News, 31 July 2026

The bartender expressed disappointment in how her employer handled the aftermath. — Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 30 July 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