Definition of umbragenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word umbrage distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of umbrage are dudgeon, huff, offense, pique, and resentment. While all these words mean "an emotional response to or an emotional state resulting from a slight or indignity," umbrage may suggest hurt pride, resentment, or suspicion of another's motives.

took umbrage at the offer of advice

When would dudgeon be a good substitute for umbrage?

Although the words dudgeon and umbrage have much in common, dudgeon suggests an angry fit of indignation.

stormed out of the meeting in high dudgeon

When could huff be used to replace umbrage?

The words huff and umbrage can be used in similar contexts, but huff implies a peevish short-lived spell of anger usually at a petty cause.

in a huff he slammed the door

When is offense a more appropriate choice than umbrage?

While the synonyms offense and umbrage are close in meaning, offense implies hurt displeasure.

takes deep offense at racial slurs

When can pique be used instead of umbrage?

The meanings of pique and umbrage largely overlap; however, pique applies to a transient feeling of wounded vanity.

in a pique I foolishly declined the invitation

When might resentment be a better fit than umbrage?

While in some cases nearly identical to umbrage, resentment suggests lasting indignation or ill will.

harbored a lifelong resentment of his brother

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of umbrage This is roughly the root of this week’s umbrage and vitriol toward Kang following Putellas’ announced departure from Barcelona and subsequent discussion on her next move. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 27 May 2026 Met by protests Brittin was met at the front of the BBC’s New Broadcasting House HQ in London by a small group of protesters holding National Union of Journalists placards, taking umbrage with the layoffs in the BBC News division. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 18 May 2026 In February, Charli also shared a companion album for Emerald Fennell’s film adaptation of Wuthering Heights, which featured John Cale and Sky Ferreira (although Ferreira took some umbrage with the release, claiming that the soundtrack drew significantly on her old demos). Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 10 May 2026 Desmond took particular umbrage with that program. Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for umbrage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for umbrage
Noun
  • Devers walked back to the dugout in a huff.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026
  • Not everyone feels the same way, however, and some progressive parents and staff are in a huff.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • But no one was happy, particularly fans of the singer who reacted with anger at the unauthorized use.
    StyleCaster Editors, StyleCaster, 9 July 2026
  • But the real anger belongs to the narrator herself, who berates herself for bringing a succession of troubled men into her son’s life.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 9 July 2026
Noun
  • This would let traffic flow, which is so necessary for the vitality and economy of Chicago; provide a safer route for bikers; and ease the frustration of all of those on the streets of Chicago.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • Spence also appears to be absorbing the blame for broader failures, with Thomas Tuchel’s touchline frustrations obvious and — for a player still establishing himself at this level — that scrutiny is unlikely to help.
    Sarah Shephard, New York Times, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • Advertisements extending beyond traditional commercial breaks to include live presenter endorsements and real-time odds promotions have sparked a fresh wave of indignation, with politicians across the political spectrum calling for tighter controls.
    ABC News, ABC News, 3 July 2026
  • The video went viral, encapsulating the prevalent mood of indignation about official nonaction.
    Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Politicians and podcasters model an ethos of resentment, dominance, and 15-minute fame for today’s young men.
    Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 7 July 2026
  • Mental health experts previously told USA TODAY that resentment toward displays of wealth often have little to do with the actual individuals involved.
    Charles Trepany, USA Today, 6 July 2026
Noun
  • Maybe the high public dudgeon is just envy masquerading as principle.
    Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 12 June 2026
  • Beck is in a state of high dudgeon, because there’s a big shipment due and two of his drivers are AWOL.
    Chris Klimek, Vulture, 20 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • At a certain point, the admiration for Paraguay’s underdog defiance and spoiling strategy gave way to exasperation.
    Adam Crafton, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • When even her attempts at enjoying life’s simpler pleasures — like some chicken parm and coconut cream pie at home with a glass of wine — go tragically awry, Patricia’s disappointment and exasperation are both hilarious and painfully palpable.
    Josef Adalian, Vulture, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • The ribbed fabric is constructed with minimal seams to keep your skin comfortable and irritation-free in humid weather.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 6 July 2026
  • Though more popular for your skin, when applied to your scalp and strands, the ingredient sloughs off buildup, soothes irritation, reduces dandruff, and controls oil production.
    Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Umbrage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/umbrage. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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