online vocabulary.com

Bitterness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Bitterness is a sharp, unpleasant taste or a feeling of resentment and anger. It can describe both the flavor of certain foods and a person’s emotional state after disappointment or hardship.

bitterness

/ˈbɪtɚnəs/ /ˈbɪtənəs/

Definition:

Sharp, unpleasant taste or feeling of resentment and anger.

Synonyms:

Resentment, acrimony, rancor, spite

Part of Speech:

Noun

Antonyms:

Sweetness, happiness

Common Collocations:

Deep bitterness, lingering bitterness, taste of bitterness

Derivatives:

Bitter, bitterly

Usage Tips:

Use "bitterness" to describe strong negative emotions or a sharp taste, often in metaphorical contexts.

Common Phrases:

Bitter pill to swallow, full of bitterness, leave a bitter taste

Etymology:

From Old English "biternes," derived from "biter" (sharp-tasting) + "-ness" (state or quality).

Examples:

  • 1. The coffee's bitterness made her grimace.
  • 2. His voice was filled with bitterness after the argument.
  • 3. She couldn't hide the bitterness in her tone.
  • 4. The medicine's bitterness lingered on his tongue.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS