bitter

bit-ter · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Having a sharp, pungent taste; not sweet.

  2. 2.

    [British]A type of beer with a bitter taste.

  3. 3.

    Feeling or showing anger, hurt, or resentment.

  4. 4.

    (Of weather or wind) intensely cold.

  5. 5.

    Painful or difficult to accept.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bitter end — The very end, especially of a difficult situation.
  • •
    bitter pill to swallow — Something unpleasant that must be accepted.
  • •
    bitter sweet — Both pleasant and painful.

Related words

Antonyms: pleasant, sweet
See also: bitterness, sour, sweet
Synonyms: acrid, harsh, resentful

Etymology

From Old English biter, from Proto-Germanic bitraz, related to bite.