Definition

The feeling or experience that is both happy and sad at the same time.

Example

The bittersweetness of her graduation made her both proud and nostalgic.

Conversation

Have you ever felt that bittersweetness when something good ends?

Absolutely! It's like you want to celebrate but also feel sad.

Yeah, it's strange how happiness and sadness can mix like that.

Right? Those moments make life so much more interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bittersweetness is formed from "bitter" (from Old English "bitter", meaning having a sharp taste or unpleasant flavor) and "sweet" (from Old English "swete", meaning having a pleasant taste). The suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of) indicates the condition of being both bitter and sweet. Thus, bittersweetness refers to the quality of having both pleasant and painful emotions or experiences simultaneously.

Memory Tip

Think of the contrasting flavors of 'bitter' and 'sweet' combined together, and remember that 'bittersweetness' describes the feeling of experiencing both joy and sorrow at the same time.

Visually Confused Words