# disgruntled

/dɪsˈɡɹənəɫd/ (US) · /dɪsɡɹˈʌntəld/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disgruntled
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

unhappy, annoyed, and disappointed because things didn't go the way you wanted. You often use this to describe someone who is not satisfied with their job or a service.

For teachers: dissatisfied, annoyed, and resentful, especially regarding a perceived lack of fair treatment. Often used predicatively after linking verbs such as 'remain' or 'become'.

## Examples

- The disgruntled customer demanded a full refund.
- After the company cancelled the holiday bonuses, several disgruntled employees began looking for new jobs.
- The management team struggled to address the concerns of a disgruntled minority whose vocal opposition threatened to derail the entire restructuring process.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as an adjective despite its origins as a past participle; frequently appears before nouns like 'employee', 'customer', or 'voter'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.