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

But the Comets responded to the disappointment of suddenly going down 8-5 to their biggest rival. —Nathan Dunn, Kansas City Star, 13 Jan. 2026

The disappointment in the loss sparked questions about Tomlin’s job security, which has come into question during struggles this season. —Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 13 Jan. 2026

Huntersville police expressed disappointment and social media reaction was mixed after someone absconded with all the pet food and other supplies in a community pet pantry last week. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 13 Jan. 2026

Mekhi Becton, a big disappointment, did a fine job looking around during an early blitz and moved late. —Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 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