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

Weug described her disappointment in a heartfelt social media post in August and appealed for teams and sponsors to get in touch. — ABC News, 28 Sep. 2026

At the end of the day, heed these words of advice for any dedicated thrift store shopper who knows the disappointment of leaving a beautiful but flawed item behind. — Felicia Feaster, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026

Most importantly, the Marlins need to carry the disappointment of 2026 into 2027 as motivation rather than frustration. — Brandon Liguori, Miami Herald, 27 Sep. 2026

Dealing with disappointment Of course, if your child does not measure up, they may be disappointed. — Kimberly Zapata, Parents, 27 Sep. 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