resentment

noun

re·​sent·​ment ri-ˈzent-mənt 

: a feeling of indignant displeasure or persistent ill will at something regarded as a wrong, insult, or injury

Synonyms of resentment

• grudge
• grievance

Choose the Right Synonym for resentment

offense, resentment, umbrage, pique, dudgeon, huff mean an emotional response to or an emotional state resulting from a slight or indignity.

offense implies hurt displeasure.

takes deep offense at racial slurs

resentment suggests lasting indignation or ill will.

harbored a lifelong resentment of his brother

umbrage may suggest hurt pride, resentment, or suspicion of another's motives.

took umbrage at the offer of advice

pique applies to a transient feeling of wounded vanity.

in a pique I foolishly declined the invitation

dudgeon suggests an angry fit of indignation.

stormed out of the meeting in high dudgeon

huff implies a peevish short-lived spell of anger usually at a petty cause.

in a huff he slammed the door

Examples of resentment in a Sentence

She bore bitter feelings of resentment toward her ex-husband.

He's filled with resentment at his boss.

He expressed his resentment of the new policies.

Recent Examples on the Web

There is public resentment about the way Andrew operated. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 5 Nov. 2025

Ratanaruang’s take on the concept is broadly similar, as his film uses the sumptuous dishes prepared by its protagonist to express her hurt and resentment. —Katie Rife, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2025

The same survey found more than half of those who support their parents have incurred debt while providing help, and almost half feel resentment toward their parents because of the financial burden. —Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 3 Nov. 2025

While not everyone needs a vote, transparency can help prevent surprises and resentment down the road. —Steve Hruby, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for resentment

• contentment
• presentment

Kids Definition

resentment

noun

re·​sent·​ment ri-ˈzent-mənt 

: a feeling of angry displeasure at something regarded as a wrong, insult, or injury