bittersweet
Bittersweet (adj) means tasting of both bitterness and sweetness at once. Example: “The dark chocolate had a bittersweet edge.”
How to use bittersweet
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMixing something pleasant with something painful, whether in taste or in feeling.
Word forms
more bittersweet comparative, bittersweets plural, most bittersweet superlative
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The dark chocolate had a _____ edge.
Etymology
From Middle English bitterswete, a straightforward joining of bitter and sweet.
Rhymes for bittersweet
See all rhymes for bittersweet →Frequently asked questions
What does “bittersweet” mean?
The word “bittersweet” means tasting of both bitterness and sweetness at once. In plain terms, mixing something pleasant with something painful, whether in taste or in feeling.
How do you pronounce “bittersweet”?
“Bittersweet” is pronounced BIHT-sweet (/ˈbɪtɚˌswit/ in IPA).
How do you use “bittersweet” in a sentence?
Here is “bittersweet” used in a sentence: “The dark chocolate had a bittersweet edge.”
What part of speech is “bittersweet”?
“Bittersweet” is an adjective.
Where does the word “bittersweet” come from?
The word “bittersweet” comes from Middle English. From Middle English bitterswete, a straightforward joining of bitter and sweet.
Is “bittersweet” a common word?
“Bittersweet” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “bittersweet” have?
“Bittersweet” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: tasting of both bitterness and sweetness at once.
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