Discontents

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Feelings of dissatisfaction and unhappiness regarding circumstances or situations in life
2. A state of being unhappy or dissatisfied, often due to unmet expectations or goals
3. A sense of grievance or frustration stemming from perceived injustices or unfulfilled desires

Etymology: "Discontents" is the plural of "discontent," which is a noun meaning dissatisfaction or a state of unhappiness with one's circumstances. The plural form, used mainly in the phrase "the discontents," refers to a group of such feelings, the grievances or restless dissatisfactions felt by many people at once. The noun is built from the prefix "dis-" and "content." The prefix comes from Latin "dis-," meaning apart or reversed, and passed into English through Middle English. "Content" comes from the Latin "contentus," meaning contained or satisfied, so the combined word reverses the sense of being at rest. A discontent is a state where one is not contained within satisfaction.

Synonyms: dissatisfaction, unhappiness, displeasure, discontentment, frustration

Antonyms: contentment, satisfaction, happiness, pleasure, joy