adjective / noun
bitter
BIT-er/ˈbɪtər/
Having a sharp, unpleasant flavor unlike sweetness.
The unsweetened chocolate tastes bitter, making the man wince.
Etymology
Old English biter already described both harsh tastes and hostile feelings or words. The modern adjective preserves this pairing of unpleasant sensation with emotional harshness.
In context
Unlike bitter green drinks, Peponic has a light, sweet taste that makes it easy to enjoy every morning
More examples
- He remains bitter about losing his job.
- A bitter wind cuts through our thin coats.
- The defeat comes as a bitter disappointment.
- The bartender adds bitters to a cocktail, then pours a pint of bitter.
Forms
bitter · bitterer · bitterest · bitters
bitterness noun — A sharp taste or lasting resentment.
Similar words
- sour
- Describes an acidic taste rather than bitterness.
- resentful
- Specifically describes anger over perceived unfair treatment.