frustration

noun

(ˌ)frə-ˈstrā-shən How to pronounce frustration (audio)
Definition of frustrationnext
1
as in headache
something that is a source of irritation bad spelling is a constant frustration to language-arts teachers

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2
as in disappointment
the emotion felt when one's expectations are not met the kids couldn't hide their frustration when they couldn't get the electronic toy to work

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3
as in exasperation
the feeling of impatience or anger caused by another's repeated disagreeable acts the professor's frustration with students who refused to consult the syllabus

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of frustration The Buckeyes took out their frustration on Kent State the following week, winning 59-3. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2026 Hinton, known as the godfather of AI, is portrayed as a saintly figure who espouses a model of growth based on truth, patience, and moderation, much to the frustration of his pupil. — E. Alex Jung, Vulture, 2 Oct. 2026 There are existing tensions between the city and its advisory boards, with members frequently expressing frustration that city leaders fail to take their recommendations seriously. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026 Many users express frustration with AI's inaccuracies, misleading information, and the intrusive nature of AI summaries. — Rob Pegoraro, Washington Post, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for frustration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for frustration
  1. headache
  2. disappointment
  3. exasperation
  4. annoyance
  5. dismay
  6. irritation
  7. nuisance
  8. dissatisfaction
Noun
  • The usual symptoms include high fever, headache, stiffness and an overall feeling that resembles the flu.
    — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2026
  • Budget cuts The unrest is adding to a major political headache for the government, which is about to start tough budget negotiations against a backdrop of division and economic turmoil.
    — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of headache
Noun
  • Chastain voiced her disappointment with the decision at the time in a statement shared on social media.
    — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Retiring from the national team seemed to be an option after that World Cup disappointment, but Ronaldo said he was urged to continue by the Portuguese soccer federation president – something which now looks incredibly ill-advised.
    — Ben Church, CNN Money, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of disappointment
Noun
  • But through a bit of TV fame, and Ramsay’s signature yelling, ranting, exasperation and, in the end, brotherly wisdom, perhaps its restaurant dreams can come true.
    — Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 1 Oct. 2026
  • In a room full of fascists and fools, Ahmed’s projection of competence—and of the spluttering exasperation that is the lot of the competent—proves a genuine balm.
    — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2026
Definition of exasperation
Noun
  • The third season sees Ranma and fiancée Akane have to deal with old annoyances, new dangers, and even more shenanigans.
    — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026
  • While some experts cite the threat of civilian drones being equipped to deliver explosives or chemical or biological agents, authorities and defense executives say the more common risk is annoyance and interruption.
    — Jason Gewirtz, CNBC, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of annoyance
Noun
  • And to my family’s dismay, more good books are being published every week.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Just like that, months of dismay — and his 0-for-3 start to the afternoon — were forgotten.
    — Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 30 Sep. 2026
Definition of dismay
Noun
  • Give yourself a beat before turning a passing irritation into a whole situation.
    — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026
  • And natural gum support from an ecosystem that calms irritation.
    — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of irritation
Noun
  • For homeowners who have spent decades building equity, failing windows are more than a nuisance.
    — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Legal experts on the other side question the notion that a public nuisance can be defined so broadly to include both the sale of a legal product and the impact on carbon pollution, much of it coming from China and India.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 2026
Definition of nuisance
Noun
  • While voters expressed deep dissatisfaction with Republicans, the survey indicates that voters have relatively little confidence Democrats have their problems in mind.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026
  • Trump retains enormous influence among the Republican voters who powered his ascent, even as dissatisfaction with his leadership threatens candidates who must appeal beyond his most committed supporters.
    — Cat Zakrzewski, Washington Post, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of dissatisfaction

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frustrating
frustration
frustrations
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Cite this Entry

“Frustration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/frustration. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on frustration

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about frustration

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