bi
tter
ness
Plural
bitternesses
1
the sharp and unpleasant taste often found in coffee, dark chocolate, or certain vegetables
- The bitterness of the black coffee lingered on her palate.
- The baker balanced the sweetness of the cake with a hint of bitterness from cocoa.
- The bitterness of the medicine made it challenging to swallow.
- The herbal tea had a soothing warmth with a subtle bitterness.
- The bitterness of the tonic water surprised her as she took a sip.
2
a feeling and attitude of resentment or hostility towards others, often stemming from past experiences of pain, betrayal, or disappointment
- The bitter argument between friends left a lingering sense of bitterness that strained their relationship.
- Her bitterness toward the unfair treatment at work fueled her determination to seek justice and advocate for change.
- The divorce proceedings were marked by bitterness as both parties fought over assets and custody of their children.
- Years of unresolved conflicts had sown seeds of bitterness between the two families, making reconciliation challenging.
- The bitterness in her tone reflected the disappointment she felt after discovering the truth about the situation.
Synonyms: