Frustration

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /fɹʌsˈtɹeɪ.ʃən/

Definitions

1. A feeling of annoyance or disappointment that arises when one's efforts are blocked or goals remain unachieved
2. A state of emotional distress resulting from being unable to achieve desired outcomes or from encountering obstacles in one's endeavors
3. An emotional response characterized by dissatisfaction or irritation when faced with setbacks or unfulfilled aspirations

Etymology: Latin "frustra" meant "in vain" or "for nothing," and from it came "frustrari," to make something futile, and the noun "frustratio," which meant disappointment or a thwarting of plans. English took the verb "frustrate" from the Latin past participle "frustratus," and the noun grew from the verb by the usual route of adding "-ion." The original sense stayed close to the Latin: to frustrate a plan was to foil it, leaving the effort wasted. Over time the word moved from the outcome to the person experiencing it. Early English uses centred on something being thwarted, such as hopes or designs. The meaning of an inner state of irritation, the sense the word carries today, developed later, so the modern feeling of exasperation is a shift from the external act of defeating someone to the internal reaction of being defeated.

Synonyms: disappointment, annoyance, irritation, dissatisfaction, vexation

Antonyms: satisfaction, contentment, pleasure, happiness, fulfillment