Definition

A feeling of sadness or displeasure when something does not happen as expected or hoped.

Example

She felt a deep sense of disappointment when her team lost the game.

Conversation

I felt such a sense of disappointment when the concert was canceled.

I know, right? I was really looking forward to it too.

It's tough when you build up excitement, only to have it taken away.

Yeah, but maybe they'll reschedule, and we can go then!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disappointment is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "appoint" (from Latin "appointare", meaning to assign or designate). The word describes the feeling of being let down or having one's expectations set apart from reality, as in not receiving what was assigned or expected.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'let down' when something you were 'assigned' or expected doesn't happen — 'dis-' means apart, and 'appoint' means to assign.

Visually Confused Words