Reading Theme:
Disenchantment: Definition, Usage & Examples
Meaning 1：disillusionment (disenchantment)
disenchantment
/ˌdɪs.ɪnˈtʃɑːnt.mənt/
n.
the feeling you get when something you believed was special turns out to be ordinary or disappointing, like waking up from a happy dream.
disillusionment
➕
/ˌdɪs.ɪˈluːʒ.ən.mənt/
n.
The feeling of disappointment when something believed to be special or ideal turns out to be ordinary or disappointing.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From 'dis-' (opposite) + 'enchant' (to charm) + '-ment' (state), meaning the state of being freed from enchantment.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'dis-enchant-ment': like a magical spell wearing off, leaving you disappointed with reality.
📖 Example
After years in the corporate world, his initial excitement turned into disenchantment with the relentless pursuit of profit.
After years in the corporate world, his initial excitement turned into disenchantment with the relentless pursuit of profit.
🔗 Collocations
political disenchantment – dissatisfaction with political systems or leaders
widespread disenchantment – common feeling of disillusionment among many people
sense of disenchantment – the feeling of being disillusioned
🔄 Synonyms
disillusionment (n.) – the state of being freed from illusion or false belief
disappointment (n.) – the feeling of sadness or displeasure when hopes are not met
letdown (n.) – a disappointment or anticlimax
🚫 Antonyms
enchantment (n.) – the state of being under a spell or greatly delighted
idealization (n.) – the act of regarding something as perfect or ideal
🌱 Derivatives
disenchant (v.) – to free from enchantment or illusion
disenchanted (adj.) – no longer believing in the value or charm of something
📖 Cultural Story
Originated from French 'désenchantement,' from Latin, meaning to free from enchantment. Now commonly describes disillusionment with politics, ideals, or corporate culture.
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