disappointing

1 of 2

adjective

dis·​ap·​point·​ing ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ How to pronounce disappointing (audio)
Synonyms of disappointingnext
: failing to meet expectations
a disappointing meal
disappointingly
ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ-lē How to pronounce disappointing (audio)
adverb

disappointing

2 of 2

present participle of disappoint

Examples of disappointing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
It's been quite a disappointing year for home shoppers who waited since 2023 for rates to cool off. — Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 Starters are expected to play only a handful of snaps, but coaches want a crisp, urgent showing to erase last week’s disappointing showing against the 49ers. — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 After disappointing performances against Burnley and Charlton Athletic, Nuno’s side needed to produce a positive display. — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 But Miami’s backup offensive lineman have all been disappointing. — Omar Kelly august 25, Miami Herald, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disappointing

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1530, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disappointing was in 1530

Rhymes for disappointing

See All Rhymes for disappointing

Browse Nearby Words

disappointed
disappointing
disappointment
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Cite this Entry

“Disappointing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disappointing. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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