Embittered

Embittered describes a state of feeling or being made bitter, resentful, or cynical, usually as a result of past experiences, perceived injustices, or disappointments. This emotional state can lead to a hardened attitude towards life, a lack of trust in others, and a tendency to hold grudges. The process of becoming embittered often involves a gradual erosion of hope, optimism, and positive emotions. It can manifest in various behaviors, including irritability, withdrawal, and a critical or hostile outlook. The degree of embitterment can vary, ranging from mild resentment to deep-seated bitterness that significantly impacts an individual's well-being and relationships. Furthermore, the root causes of embitterment are varied, and its development is often influenced by personality traits, social circumstances, and the nature of the triggering events.

Embittered meaning with examples

• After years of professional setbacks and betrayals, the once optimistic artist became deeply embittered. His vibrant color palette was replaced with dark, somber tones reflecting his disillusionment. He isolated himself, refusing commissions and turning away from the art world. His embittered outlook cast a shadow over all aspects of his life, making him difficult to be around and hindering his artistic progress.
• The war veteran returned home embittered by his experiences, struggling to reconcile the horrors he witnessed with the normalcy of civilian life. Nightmares and flashbacks haunted him. He was embittered against the government for sending him to war and against society for its perceived indifference. His family tried to help, but the deep wounds of his trauma made connection difficult.
• The business owner, after being defrauded of their life savings, became embittered towards everyone. They became suspicious and unwilling to trust anyone, viewing potential partners and employees with cynicism. This embittered state ultimately damaged their new business, as their mistrust drove away clients and hampered any chance of success. The weight of their experience caused extreme stress.
• The elderly woman, widowed and alone, became embittered by the perceived neglect of her children. Though her children visited, she always focused on their perceived slights and failures to provide her the attention she felt she deserved. This embittered disposition made it difficult for them to connect with her. She focused more on the negative.
• The activist, once passionate about social justice, grew embittered by the slow pace of change and the persistent resistance to reform. The constant battles, the lack of tangible progress, and the personal attacks took their toll, slowly eroding their hope. This embittered state led to burnout and an ultimately less effective approach to their work, and contributed to the decline of their health.