Definition

The state of being freed from false beliefs or illusions, often leading to disappointment about someone or something that was once admired.

Example

After learning the truth about the company, she felt a deep sense of disenchantment.

Conversation

I felt a real sense of disenchantment after visiting that theme park.

Really? I thought it was supposed to be amazing!

It used to be great, but now it feels so commercialized.

I get that; sometimes nostalgia just doesn’t match reality.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disenchantment → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "enchant" (from Old French *enchanter*, meaning to charm or cast a spell). The word describes the state of being freed from a charm or spell, thus losing enchantment or magic.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'freed from' ('dis-') a 'charm' ('enchant') — that's why disenchantment means losing the magic or charm of something.

Visually Confused Words