disillusion

American  

[dis-i-loo-zhuhn] / ˌdɪs ɪˈlu ʒən /

verb (used with object)

1. to free from or deprive of illusion, belief, idealism, etc.; disenchant.

   Synonyms:

   disappoint, undeceive, disenthrall, disabuse

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noun

1. a freeing or a being freed from illusion or conviction; disenchantment.

disillusion British  

/ ˌdɪsɪˈluːʒən /

verb

1. (tr) to destroy the ideals, illusions, or false ideas of

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noun

1. the act of disillusioning or the state of being disillusioned

Other Word Forms

• disillusionment noun
• disillusive adjective
• undisillusioned adjective

Etymology

Origin of disillusion

First recorded in 1590–1600; dis- ¹ + illusion

Example Sentences

“We were so disillusioned after that first day.”

From Los Angeles Times

"The disappointment is profound, but the country is not only disappointed but almost disillusioned. It's as if a new generation no longer knows what it means to cheer for their country."

From BBC

The new company hired away talent who had grown disillusioned at other companies, and has struck a position far more supportive of government regulation than other leading AI firms.

From Salon

If there is a central dramatic question at play, it’s when this poor soul will be disillusioned, and whether that will come too late.

From The Wall Street Journal

Lindsay Phelps is one of a number of staff members and volunteers who left the charity "angry and upset" and "disillusioned" with Judge.

From BBC

Related Words

• disappoint
• embitter