disappointing

1 of 2

adjective

dis·​ap·​point·​ing ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ 

: failing to meet expectations

a disappointing meal

disappointingly

ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ-lē 

adverb

disappointing

2 of 2

present participle of disappoint

Examples of disappointing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Sure, the answers will probably matter, and the possibilities could be varying degrees of satisfying or disappointing. — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 28 Sep. 2026

After a disappointing campaign that fell far short of expectations, the Royals sent their fans home with a victory — and questions awaiting answers. — Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 27 Sep. 2026

After finishing the 2025 season with a 90-72 record and advancing to the seventh game of the ALCS against Toronto, the Mariners missed the playoffs with a disappointing 76-86 record this season. — Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2026

After three consecutive years of Spanish films taking the Golden Shell, this year marks a slightly disappointing turnout for the home team. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 26 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1530, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disappointing

• anointing
• appointing
• pinpointing
• jointing
• pointing