Disillusioned Meaning and Definition
Disillusioned
Pronunciation
/dɪsɪˈluːʒənd/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A person who has lost confidence or enthusiasm in something or someone because their expectations have been disappointed or not met, often resulting in a feeling of sadness, regret, or disappointment.
Examples
- She felt disillusioned with her job and was considering a change.
- After the election results, he felt disillusioned with the political system.
Synonyms
- Disheartened
- Disappointed
- Sadened
Antonyms
- Uplifted
- Encouraged
- Enthusiastic
Etymology
The word “disillusioned” is derived from the Latin words “dis” meaning “out of” and “illudere” meaning “to deceive” or “to cheat”. It originally referred to the act of deceiving or misrepresenting something, but its meaning has evolved to encompass the loss of confidence or faith in something or someone.
Usage Notes
Disillusioned is often used to describe a person’s emotional state when their expectations have not been met, but it can also be used to describe a general feeling of disappointment or regret.
Cultural References
Disillusioned has been featured in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger explores themes of disillusionment and disappointment, while the song “Disillusioned” by the band The Black Keys critiques modern society and politics.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To be disillusioned with something means to lose confidence or faith in it.
- Feeling disillusioned can lead to a sense of disconnection or detachment.
Related Words or Phrases
- Misplaced trust
- Lack of faith
- Disappointment
Collocations
- To be disillusioned with politics
- To feel disillusioned with a relationship
- To be disillusioned with oneself
Frequency of Use
Disillusioned is a relatively rare word, but it is gaining popularity as people become more aware of the importance of introspection and self-awareness.
Common Misspellings
- Disallusioned
- Disillusion