Disappoint

Definition

Disappoint is a verb that refers to the failure to fulfill someone's hopes or expectations, leading to feelings of sadness or dissatisfaction.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪsəˈpɔɪnt/
• Respelling: dis-uh-POINT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪsəˈpɔɪnt/
• Respelling: dis-uh-POINT

The pronunciation of "disappoint" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "disappoint" comes from the Old French word "desappointer," meaning "to undo an appointment," with the Latin roots "dis-" meaning "apart" and "appointare," meaning "to arrange." The term evolved in English during the late Middle Ages to refer to the failure of expectations or plans.

Derivatives

• Disappointment (noun)
• Disappointing (adjective)
• Disappointingly (adverb)
• Undisappointed (adjective)
• Disappointable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Let down
• Dissatisfy
• Disillusion

Antonyms

• Satisfy
• Fulfill
• Delight

Usage

The word "disappoint" is commonly used to describe situations in which someone's expectations are not met, often resulting in feelings of regret or frustration. It is frequently used in emotional, social, and professional contexts to express unmet hopes or plans.

Related Terms

• Expectation: A strong belief that something will happen or be the case in the future.
• Disillusionment: A feeling of disappointment resulting from the realization that something is not as good as one believed it to be.
• Regret: A feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To fail to meet the expectations or hopes of someone: Refers to causing someone to feel sad or dissatisfied because of unmet expectations.
  • Example: "The movie disappointed her because it didn't live up to the reviews."
• To frustrate or defeat someone's plans or intentions: Refers to thwarting someone's efforts or goals.
  • Example: "The sudden rain disappointed their plans for a picnic."