WordGarden.iobitterness
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɪtənəs/
US
- /ˈbɪtərnəs/
Meanings
Noun
angry resentment or cynical hurt after unfair treatment or disappointment
the sharp unpleasant taste quality associated with bitter foods or drinks
Beyond the definition
Bitterness isn't just about something tasting unpleasant like unsweetened grapefruit; it is a deep-seated feeling of resentment, disappointment, and even anger. It often arises when things don't go as planned or when someone feels unfairly treated. Imagine a story where a character loses everything—their home, their family, their dreams. That lingering ache and that sense of injustice is bitterness taking root.
You might say someone shows bitterness in their words or actions, like snapping at friends or dwelling on past hurts. It can be a heavy weight to carry, often coloring how a person sees the world. A character consumed by bitterness might struggle to trust others or find joy in life. Shakespeare understood this well; his plays are full of characters wrestling with the sting of betrayal and the corrosive power of bitterness.
Bitterness is a complex emotion characterized by feelings of resentment, disappointment, and sadness—often stemming from perceived unfairness or hardship. It is more than just being unhappy; it is a lingering negativity that can poison one's outlook on life.
Like the taste it shares a name with, bitterness leaves an unpleasant aftertaste. It often develops over time as unresolved grievances fester and grow. A person might feel bitterness toward someone who wronged them, or toward fate itself for dealing them a difficult hand. You will find it in stories of lost love, broken promises, and unfulfilled ambitions.
Bitterness can manifest in various ways: cynicism, irritability, withdrawal from others, or even passive-aggressive behavior. A character described as "bitter" is likely to be disillusioned and skeptical, struggling to see the good in people or situations. It is a powerful emotion that can consume someone if left unchecked.
However, bitterness isn't always purely destructive. Sometimes acknowledging and processing painful experiences—even those filled with resentment—can be a necessary step toward healing and growth. A writer might explore how a character overcomes their bitterness, finding forgiveness or acceptance to move forward.
So, whether it is the sharp taste on your tongue or the heavy weight in your heart, bitterness is a potent emotion that speaks to deep-seated pain and disappointment—and its presence can profoundly shape a person's life and story.
Examples
- 1
Taste
The dark chocolate has a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.
- 2
Election
Even after he lost the election, he spoke without bitterness.
- 3
Unfair treatment
Years of unfair treatment had filled her with bitterness.
- Patternfill someone with bitterness
make them feel deeply angry and hurt
- 4
Factory closure
There is still a lot of bitterness over the factory's closure.
- Patternbitterness over + event/problem
angry, hurt feelings about it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Family conflict
The long legal battle created bitterness between the two brothers.
- 6
Tone of voice
Her voice was full of bitterness when she mentioned his name.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- deep bitterness
- lingering bitterness
- bitterness toward someone
- bitterness over something
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- bitternessnoun