Pronunciation

/bɪˈtɜːr/

Definitions

Noun

• A bitter taste or flavor, often associated with a substance like herbs or alcohol.
• A feeling of disappointment, resentment, or dissatisfaction; something harsh or unpalatable.
• (Chemistry) A type of acid having a sour or unpleasant taste.

Verb

• To experience or perceive something as bitter.
• To feel bitterness towards someone or a situation.
• (Informal) To endure or suffer through a difficult or unpleasant experience.

Adjective

• Taste that is sharp and unpleasant, often from a high level of acidity or tannins.
• Causing a sense of dissatisfaction or unhappiness.
• Characterized by a harsh or pessimistic attitude.

Adverb

• In a bitter manner; with a sense of resentment or unhappiness.

Phrases

• “A bitter pill to swallow” means a difficult truth or situation to accept.
• “Bitter aftertaste” refers to a lingering unpleasant sensation.
• “To lick one’s wounds” (informal) can mean to deal with a painful or disappointing experience, often involving a sense of bitterness.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The herbal tea had a strong, bitter taste.”
• Verb: “She couldn’t help but feel bitter about her recent breakup.”
• Adjective: “The old man remembered his past with a bitter nostalgia.”
• Adverb: “He swallowed his pride with a bitterly silent acceptance.”

Synonyms

• Sour
• Harsh
• Acrid
• Unpalatable
• Resentful
• Discontented
• Unhappy

Note: The verb form “to bitter” is less common and usually implies a process of making something taste or feel bitter, rather than expressing a personal emotion.