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

• dismay
• dissatisfaction
• frustration
• letdown

Examples of disappointment in a Sentence

She couldn't hide her disappointment.

He's a disappointment to his parents.

Recent Examples on the Web

Clark tried to erase the memories of his disappointment at Oakmont with an opening round 6-under 64 on Thursday, putting him tied for second in the early afternoon. —Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 19 June 2025

He was drafted #9 and hasn't been a disappointment, so.... K Kip L. · 1h 4m ago Have fun replacing a 60 point center for 5 million. —Michael Russo, New York Times, 19 June 2025

Kelce expressed disappointment in not getting open enough or blocking the right players. —Jeff Fedotin, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

Chicago-area trans and LGBTQ+ community groups responded with disappointment and anger Wednesday to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Tennessee’s ban on gender affirming care. —William Tong, Chicago Tribune, 18 June 2025

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