Bitter
/ˈbɪtər/
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving a sharp, unpleasant taste or smell, like that of quinine or unsweetened chocolate.
/ˈbɪtər/
Having a harsh, unpleasant taste or smell.
The chocolate was incredibly bitter.
💡 Simply: Having a bad, unpleasant taste.
More Examples
The experience left a bitter taste in my mouth.
How It's Used
"The coffee was too bitter."
"The medicine had a bitter taste."
Characterized by deep resentment, sadness, or anger.
/ˈbɪtər/
Characterized by intense pain or unhappiness.
He felt a bitter disappointment after failing the exam.
💡 Simply: Feeling very unhappy or resentful.
More Examples
The breakup left her with a bitter feeling.
How It's Used
"She felt a bitter resentment towards her former boss."
Idioms & expressions
a bitter pill to swallow
An unpleasant but unavoidable fact or situation.
"Losing the job was a bitter pill to swallow."
From Old English *biter, from Proto-Germanic *bitraz (compare Dutch bitter, German bitter). Ultimately related to words expressing sharpness or acridity.
The word 'bitter' has been used in its sensory and emotional senses since Old English, reflecting its enduring association with unpleasantness.
Memory tip
Think of a bitter pill – something unpleasant to swallow.
Word Origin
"sharp, acrid"