Dismay

/dɪsˈmeɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A feeling of shock or distress caused by something unexpected.

His dismay was evident when he realized he had missed the deadline.

A loss of courage or resolution due to an unexpected event.

The team's dismay was palpable after their unexpected defeat in the championship.

verb

To cause someone to feel distress or disappointment.

The unexpected news of the layoffs dismayed the employees.

To lose one's composure or calm due to fear or anxiety.

She was dismayed to find that she had forgotten her speech just before the presentation.

Middle English, from dis- + mayen, to be able.

in dismay

Feeling shocked or concerned about something unexpected.

to one's dismay

To one's surprise and disappointment.

consternation

Feelings of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected.

distress

Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.

Bummed out

He was totally bummed out about missing the concert.

Let down

She felt let down when the event got canceled.