noun

resentment

rih-ZEHNT-muhnt

noun

A bitter, lingering anger caused by feeling wronged or treated unfairly.

"Years of resentment built up after he was passed over for the promotion."

"She spoke with quiet resentment about the way her ideas had been ignored."

How to Use Resentment

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA grudge-like anger that simmers rather than explodes, usually because someone feels they were treated unjustly.

Common mistake

Resentment is usually long-lasting and internal, unlike sudden anger; don't use it for a brief flash of irritation.

Common pairings

harbor resentment deep resentment a sense of resentment resentment toward someone

resentments plural

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Years of _____ built up after he was passed over for the promotion.

From "resent" plus "-ment", ultimately from French sentir, "to feel" — the same root as "sentiment" and "sensation".

contentment