schadenfreude

American  

[shahd-n-froi-duh] / ˈʃɑd nˌfrɔɪ də /

noun

1. satisfaction or pleasure felt at someone else's misfortune.

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Schadenfreude British  

/ ˈʃaːdənfrɔydə /

noun

1. delight in another's misfortune

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Etymology

Origin of schadenfreude

1890–95; < German, equivalent to Schaden harm + Freude joy

Example Sentences

But much of the film’s popularity probably stemmed from that reliable magnet of interest, schadenfreude, as the Siegels’ dream of living like American royalty ran aground when the Great Recession hit.

From The Wall Street Journal

My cup of schadenfreude should be running over right about now.

From Salon

But schadenfreude is the American way, especially if it happens on national television.

From Salon

Delicious, especially if you enjoy your schadenfreude served piping hot.

From Los Angeles Times

In the spirit of schadenfreude, I’d have happily watched a whole additional hour of this Chuck-driven armageddon where, as his body collapses, the stars in the sky blink out one by one.

From Los Angeles Times