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

But on Monday, Lecornu conceded with "a certain degree of regret and a bit of bitterness" that he had to invoke the power to push the budget through.

From Barron's

At the time, the board envisioned a power-sharing arrangement between the two Bobs, but it ultimately fueled bitterness.

From Los Angeles Times

He told a news conference he had decided "with a certain degree of regret and a bit of bitterness" to invoke a constitutional measure that would force the legislation through.

From Barron's

Otherwise, no one will feel like they’re getting a fair deal, and it will turn into one of those family stories, steeped in bitterness and resentment, that will linger for years.

From MarketWatch

"The defeat leaves us with bitterness, but our players gave everything."

From Barron's

Related Words

• anguish
• hostility
• pain
• sarcasm