disappointing

1 of 2

adjective

dis·​ap·​point·​ing ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ 

: failing to meet expectations

a disappointing meal

disappointingly

ˌdis-ə-ˈpȯin-tiŋ-lē 

adverb

disappointing

2 of 2

present participle of disappoint

Examples of disappointing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

What could be more disappointing than getting rejected by my own dog? — Eva Jaber, Washington Post, 11 Oct. 2026

Putting me in a position to question my integrity is really disappointing. — ABC News, 9 Oct. 2026

The 20-year-old has been the catalyst for Oklahoma State’s bounce-back after a disappointing 1-11 campaign in 2025. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

The feeling may not be mutual with the 28-year-old fresh off a disappointing and turbulent season. — Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1530, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disappointing

• anointing
• appointing
• pinpointing
• jointing
• pointing