Definition

Feeling sad or unhappy because something did not happen as expected or because someone did not meet your hopes.

Example

She was disappointed when her favorite team lost the game.

Conversation

I was really looking forward to the concert this weekend.

Me too! I hope it doesn't get canceled.

Yeah, I would be so disappointed if that happened.

Same here! I was excited to see my favorite band live.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disappointed is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "appoint" (from Latin "ponere", meaning to place or put). The word describes the feeling of being let down or having one's hopes placed apart from reality.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'let down' when something you hoped for is 'placed away' from you — 'dis-' means apart, and 'appoint' relates to placing expectations.

Visually Confused Words