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

That’s been one of the main disappointments of this season. —Tim Britton, New York Times, 29 May 2026

As the days since the vandalism have passed, however, Elder has transformed that pain and disappointment into joy and excitement. —Jenna Ebbers, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026

This election also is a big disappointment for Steyer, who campaigned as the billionaire who wants to ramp up his own taxes to impose single-payer health insurance. —John Seiler, Oc Register, 29 May 2026

The World Cup, though, also serves crushing disappointment as very few things can. —Ben Church, CNN Money, 28 May 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