disillusionment

[ dis-i-loo-zhuhn-muhnt ]

noun

1. the loss or destruction of illusions or idealistic beliefs; the state of having lost such illusions or beliefs:

   Her bitterness and disillusionment were complete when he refused to investigate the corruption she reported because he was in business with some of the people involved.

Word History and Origins

Origin of disillusionment¹

disillusion ( def ) + -ment ( def )

Example Sentences

The former governor stroke a general tone of disillusionment with politics, saying that he doesn't "like either party right now" and could find fault with both Democratic and Republican platforms.

From Salon

I found Democrats battling insomnia and altering travel plans, Republicans who were friendly to a reporter but suspicious of the mainstream media and an overriding sense of disillusionment.

From Los Angeles Times

The character of Jesus of Suburbia embodies this disillusionment, navigating “the subliminal mindf**k America,” a world that feels increasingly hollow and disconnected from any meaningful values.

From Salon

Then Trump changed course, and her disillusionment with the former president swelled.

From BBC

Many Americans struggled during the pandemic — with polls at the time showing disillusionment with Trump’s stewardship — and the economy has recovered well under President Biden, according to government indicators.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• adversity
• blow
• chagrin
• defeat
• discontent
• disenchantment
• dissatisfaction
• failure
• frustration
• letdown
• regret
• setback