bitterness

American  

[bit-er-nis] / ˈbɪt ər nɪs /

noun

1. a harsh, acrid taste that is one of the four basic taste sensations; a taste that is not sour, sweet, or salty.

   The beer’s initial flavor profile is a faint bitterness, with a lingering, slightly cloying sweetness.

2. a feeling of pain or distress.

   The bitter herbs at a Passover Seder are meant to remind us of the bitterness of slavery.

3. a feeling of antagonism, hostility, or resentfulness.

   There was no shortage of people expressing frustration and bitterness about the slow pace of the relief efforts.

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Other Word Forms

• overbitterness noun

Etymology

Origin of bitterness

bitter ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

The brown butter lends a nutty undertone and caramel depth, a quiet bitterness that keeps the sweetness in check.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026

The rest of the band joins in as Ayewa calls for the listener to look up to a world above war, bitterness, and division.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

We know how this game ends: in bitterness and resentment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

"Let the country's interests come first, regardless of political party or ambition. Let us move forward without hatred, resentment, or bitterness to build that wonderful Venezuela."

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

The liquid was still thick, and still the color of old blood, but the dirt taste was gone, as was the spicy bitterness.

From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack

Related Words

• anguish
• hostility
• pain
• sarcasm