Bitterish

Having a slightly bitter taste or quality; approaching or tending toward bitterness without being intensely so. It suggests a subtle or muted unpleasantness, an initial impression of acridity that does not fully develop into a complete, unpalatable bitterness. This can apply to tastes, smells, or even more abstract qualities like feelings or observations, implying a degree of cynicism or disillusionment that is not overwhelming. The 'ish' suffix softens the core meaning of 'bitter,' providing a nuance indicating moderation or incompleteness in the negative characteristic. It suggests a hint of something sharp or unpleasant, not an all-consuming experience.

Bitterish meaning with examples

• The coffee, brewed too strong, had a bitterish aftertaste that lingered on the tongue, making the start of the morning somewhat less pleasant than hoped, a subtle reminder of the strength that was slightly too far in the drink.
• As she reflected on the failed project, a bitterish sense of disappointment washed over her; it wasn't crushing, but a small, nagging feeling of something being sour.
• The autumn air carried a bitterish tang, a slight metallic smell from the dying leaves, foreshadowing the coming cold, even though the sun continued to shine.
• His observations on modern society, while sometimes insightful, often held a bitterish edge, reflecting a degree of skepticism about progress. This made him harder to approach.
• The wine, though not entirely unpleasant, possessed a bitterish note, an underlying harshness that prevented it from achieving the smooth experience which was intended.