Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌdɪsəˈpɔɪntmənt/

Definitions

• Disappointment (noun): The feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.
• Disappointment (noun): A person or thing that causes such a feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction.

Usage Examples

• The news of her rejection was a great disappointment to him.
• His failure to finish the project on time was a major disappointment.
• She looked at the empty gift box with a sense of disappointment.

Etymology

The word "disappointment" is derived from the verb "disappoint," which originates from the Latin word "dis-" meaning "apart" and "appointare" meaning "to appoint or arrange." The term "disappointment" came into use in the 16th century, signifying the state of being let down or frustrated when expectations were not met. The noun form appeared in English during the late 17th century.

Synonyms

• Frustration
• Displeasure
• Letdown
• Regret
• Sadness

Antonyms

• Joy
• Happiness
• Contentment
• Satisfaction
• Delight

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the pronunciation of "disappointment" may vary slightly. In British English, it often features a more rounded vowel sound in the second syllable, whereas American English emphasizes a clearer "oi" sound. Australian English may use a more relaxed articulation, particularly with the "ment" ending.

Historical Usage

The word "disappointment" dates back to the late 16th century, originally deriving from the verb "disappoint." The noun form was used to describe both the emotional state of being let down and the object or event that caused that emotion. Over the centuries, "disappointment" became a common term for expressing dissatisfaction with unmet expectations.

Cultural Nuances

Disappointment holds cultural significance in different societies. In some cultures, expressing disappointment publicly is considered a sign of weakness, while in others, it may be seen as an acceptable emotional response to failure or unfulfilled expectations. How disappointment is expressed can vary significantly depending on social norms and individual emotional restraint.

More Information

Disappointment is a complex emotion that everyone experiences at some point. It occurs when expectations are not met, whether related to a person, an event, or a situation. The word "disappointment" is often used to describe the resulting feeling, as well as the object or event that caused the emotion. Understanding the concept of disappointment is important for both emotional health and effective communication.