Discontentments

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A feeling of unrest and dissatisfaction that emerges when aspirations or expectations are not met
2. Experiences of unease or frustration when desires or needs remain unfulfilled
3. States of being unhappy or displeased due to unmet hopes or conditions

Etymology: "Discontentments" is simply the plural of "discontentment," a noun meaning a state of unhappiness or dissatisfaction. The plural is the less common form, used when several separate dissatisfactions are meant rather than a general mood, so a sentence about "the discontentments of rural life" names a set of grievances rather than one feeling. The noun is built from two familiar parts: the prefix "dis-," meaning "not" or "the opposite of," attached to "contentment," the state of being satisfied. Taking the opposite of contentment yields the sense of being discontented. English has long combined this prefix with native and borrowed nouns in this way, so the word needs no special story to explain it; its meaning follows directly from the parts.

Synonyms: dissatisfaction, displeasure, discontent, unhappiness, disgruntlement

Antonyms: satisfaction, contentment, happiness, pleasure, content