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

To her, even the President’s most extreme policies were a disappointment. —Antonia Hitchens, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026

Still, disappointments have been the norm at this time of year. —Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026

Shifting is another disappointment. —James Raia, Mercury News, 5 Apr. 2026

Robinson would later express regret over his actions, and both men would express disappointment with the country’s lack of advancement toward racial equality at the end of their lives, says Bryant. —Suzanne Van Atten, AJC.com, 5 Apr. 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