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

Both Bahrain and the UAE have reportedly expressed concern about the UK response; Cyprus voiced its disappointment publicly. —The Week Uk, TheWeek, 15 Mar. 2026

By then, the disappointment had set in for Aberg. —ABC News, 15 Mar. 2026

This double disappointment came just two years after her first nomination, for Best Actress for Aliens (1986). —Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026

Marshall, the 59th pick in 2021, was a disappointment with Carolina and spent part of last season on the Eagles’ practice squad. —Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 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