noun / verb
grudge
GRUJ/ɡrʌdʒ/
Resentment directed toward someone over something regarded as unfair.
He holds a grudge long after she repairs his plant pot.
Etymology
The starting meaning was “to murmur or grumble.” The noun shifted attention from expressing a complaint to the ill will behind it—the resentment someone continues to hold.
In context
Aquaman just like mercilessly slaughtering all of the people that he is going to eventually be leading who I guess maybe they did hold a grudge over that
More examples
- She bears a grudge against her boss for overlooking her work.
- They settle their old grudges and become friends again.
- I don't grudge her the promotion; she deserves it.
Forms
grudge · grudges · grudged · grudging
grudging adjective — Given or done with reluctance or resentment.
Similar words
- resentment
- Anger over unfair treatment, not necessarily a lasting personal grievance.
- bitterness
- Deep anger or disappointment, not necessarily directed at someone.
- begrudge
- More commonly expresses resenting someone's advantage or giving unwillingly.