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

• dismay
• dissatisfaction
• frustration
• letdown

Examples of disappointment in a Sentence

She couldn't hide her disappointment.

He's a disappointment to his parents.

Recent Examples on the Web

The best way to overcome a year of disappointment is, of course, to challenge again, which is precisely the thought on Arteta’s mind. —Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Her tough coach, her mother Wang Shuang (Ma Yili) can’t hide her disappointment. —Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 28 May 2025

After a blockbuster offseason that included several win-now additions like Garrett Crochet, Walker Buehler and Alex Bregman, the Red Sox have been a disappointment so far. —Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025

Sunday’s final day of play will result in big financial gains for the three teams who qualify, and a massive disappointment for the two left behind. —Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 25 May 2025

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