English · Emotions & Feelings

bittersweet

/ˌbɪt.əˈswiːt/

[/ˌbɪt.əˈswiːt/]

both sad and happy

Advancedadjective

Definition

Containing a mixture of sadness and happiness at the same time.

Example

Graduation was a bittersweet day, full of proud smiles and the ache of saying goodbye.

Graduation was a bittersweet day, full of proud smiles and the ache of saying goodbye.

Etymology

Compound of 'bitter' (Old English 'biter') and 'sweet' (Old English 'swete').

How & Where It’s Used

Describes experiences blending joy and sorrow, like farewells.

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