disillusion

[dis-i-loo-zhuhn]

verb (used with object)

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

   Synonyms: disappoint, undeceive, disenthrall, disabuse

noun

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

disillusion

/ ˌdɪsɪˈluːʒən /

verb

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

noun

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

Other Word Forms

• disillusionment noun
• disillusive adjective
• undisillusioned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disillusion¹

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

Example Sentences

But their political star is rising again, and could attract voters disillusioned with both the government and the populist or extremist opposition.

From BBC

However, he became disillusioned when his friend became more and more tyrannical, and after a misunderstanding shoots and kills the Hatter.

From Salon

It answers Riefenstahl’s carefully chosen narrative, a fable of disillusioned purity, with an equally forensic counternarrative exposing her childlike narcissism about the impact of her talent.

From Los Angeles Times

Then the Brexit years came, and like an increasing number of Reform UK's new joiners, Atkinson quit the Conservatives after becoming disillusioned with the party.

From BBC

It feels a little too carefully arranged to ever truly get under your skin as a modern-day affair about disillusioned hearts.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• disappoint 
• embitter