disappointment

noun

dis·​ap·​point·​ment ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯint-mənt How to pronounce disappointment (audio)
Synonyms of disappointmentnext
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 of disappointment

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Examples of disappointment in a Sentence

She couldn't hide her disappointment. He's a disappointment to his parents.
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.
Many become lonelier and less equipped to navigate conflict, disappointment, and repair elsewhere. — David H. Rosmarin, Time, 29 Aug. 2026 Six months later, Rashidian says that optimism has largely given way to disappointment among many anti-regime activists. — Julia Vargas Jones, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 The moment everyone has been waiting for could be the week’s biggest disappointment. — Leonie Kidd, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 The announcement brought some disappointment from people in the crowd like Richard Riccetti, a committee chair for the Hemphill Corridor Task Force who was a strong advocate for the original restriping project. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disappointment

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of disappointment was in 1577

Phrases Containing disappointment

Rhymes for disappointment

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Browse Nearby Words

disappointing
disappointment
Disappointment, Cape
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

disappointment

noun
dis·​ap·​point·​ment ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯint-mənt How to pronounce disappointment (audio)
1
: the act or an instance of disappointing : the state or emotion of being disappointed
2
: one that disappoints
the play was a disappointment
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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