Definition

To make someone unhappy or dissatisfied with something.

Example

The changes in the company policy disgruntled many employees.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard the new policy at work might disgruntle a lot of employees.

Really? I can see why that would upset some people.

Yeah, it seems like management isn't considering our opinions.

That's usually when people start feeling disgruntled.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disgruntle is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "gruntle" (which is a variant of the Middle English word "gruntlen", meaning to grumble or complain). The word describes the state of being unhappy or dissatisfied, as if one is pushed away from contentment.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'pushed away' ('dis-') from a state of 'grumbling' or 'complaining' ('gruntle'). This helps you remember that to disgruntle means to make someone unhappy or dissatisfied.

Visually Confused Words