bitterness
Bitterness (noun) means a sharp, unpleasant taste, the opposite of sweetness. Example: “The bitterness of the coffee surprised her after the sugar ran out.”
How to use bitterness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a sharp taste or a sharp, lingering feeling of resentment.
Word forms
bitternesses plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of the coffee surprised her after the sugar ran out.
Etymology
From Old English biternes, built from bitter plus the noun-forming suffix -ness.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for bitterness
See all rhymes for bitterness →Frequently asked questions
What does “bitterness” mean?
The word “bitterness” means a sharp, unpleasant taste, the opposite of sweetness. In plain terms, either a sharp taste or a sharp, lingering feeling of resentment.
How do you pronounce “bitterness”?
“Bitterness” is pronounced BIH-tuh-nuhs (/ˈbɪtənəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “bitterness” in a sentence?
Here is “bitterness” used in a sentence: “The bitterness of the coffee surprised her after the sugar ran out.”
What is another word for “bitterness”?
Words with a similar meaning to “bitterness” include acerbicness, acridity, acridness, acerbity, alkalinity and astringency.
What is the opposite of “bitterness”?
The opposite of “bitterness” — its antonyms — is sweetness.
What part of speech is “bitterness”?
“Bitterness” is a noun.
Where does the word “bitterness” come from?
The word “bitterness” comes from Old English. From Old English biternes, built from bitter plus the noun-forming suffix -ness.
Is “bitterness” a common word?
“Bitterness” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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