What does resentment mean?
Resentment is a noun meaning a strong feeling of bitterness or indignation caused by something perceived as unfair, unjust, or offensive. It commonly describes emotions that persist after an incident, as in the expression “nurse a resentment,” where someone holds on to a grievance. The word conveys more than simple disappointment because it implies a judgment that another person or institution has behaved badly, often accompanied by hostility or a desire for recognition and redress. Resentment may arise in personal relationships, workplaces, political disputes, and negotiations. Although it can be understood in British and American English, the term is particularly associated with describing withheld forgiveness, suppressed anger, and enduring dissatisfaction.
nounA feeling of bitter disappointment or indignation caused by a perceived injury, unfairness, or offense. It often involves a desire for the offending person or situation to be recognized as wrong and, sometimes, a reluctance to accept or forgive it.
- A bitter feeling of indignation or hostility caused by a perceived wrong or unfair treatment.
- A lasting sense of unfairness or grievance that is difficult to dismiss or forgive.
"She nursed a deep resentment after years of being overlooked for promotions."
"The decision was made without consultation, and it generated considerable resentment among staff."
"He expressed his resentment through bitter remarks rather than confronting the issue directly."
Resentment can preserve a grievance long after the original incident has faded, turning a single perceived injustice into a lasting emotional burden.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resentment come from?
Resentment entered English through French resentment, a derivative of resentment, “to feel,” which ultimately comes from Latin sentire, “to feel, perceive.” The English noun developed in the sense of a feeling that something has been received painfully or unjustly, and its modern use emphasizes indignation at a perceived wrong. It is related to resent and to the adjective resentful, both of which preserve the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How resentment is actually used
Resentment is commonly used for a strong, persistent feeling arising from perceived unfairness. It is often more emotional and less openly confrontational than anger, although the two can overlap.
Easily confused with resentment
Resentment is a feeling of bitter displeasure or hostility, whereas resistance is an active refusal or opposition to something.