indignation

[ in-dig-ney-shuhn ]

noun

1. strong displeasure at something considered unjust, offensive, insulting, or base; righteous anger.

   Synonyms: choler, ire, wrath, exasperation, resentment

   Antonyms: calm

indignation

/ ˌɪndɪɡˈneɪʃən /

noun

1. anger or scorn aroused by something felt to be unfair, unworthy, or wrong

Other Words From

• self-indig·nation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of indignation¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English indignacio(u)n, from Latin indignātiōn-, stem of indignātiō “anger, displeasure,” from indignāt(us) “deemed unworthy, scorned” (past participle of indignārī “to deem unworthy, take offense”; indignant ) + -iō -ion

Synonym Study

See anger.

Example Sentences

His ability to navigate different crowds with his “Midwestern charm,” along with his knack for shifting his persona and leveraging righteous indignation, showed a strategic mind that should not be underestimated.

From Salon

Walz in particular has used the line that Trump is “weird” to great effect, treating Trump’s brashness not with pearl-clutching indignation but cheeky Midwest derision.

From Los Angeles Times

"The Venezuelan people feel indignation and shame at this inexplicable and immoral aggression," it added.

From BBC

Americans who have had their run-ins with the health insurance industry, never mind our own inadequate welfare state, won’t have trouble feeling indignation.

From Los Angeles Times

His release to the rural community of Juniper Hills in the Antelope Valley was met with indignation Tuesday, especially because two other violent sexual predators were placed in the community in 2021.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• displeasure
• exasperation
• fury
• ire
• pique
• rage
• resentment
• scorn