Bitterhearted

/ˈbɪt.ər.hɑr.təd/ adjective

Definition

Having a bitter, resentful, or deeply grieved heart; emotionally wounded or carrying profound disappointment and anger.

Etymology

Compound from 'bitter' and 'hearted' (from 'heart,' Old English 'heorte,' the seat of emotion). This poetic or archaic formation emphasizes emotional bitterness rooted in the heart itself.

Kelly Says

Medieval and Renaissance poets loved compound emotional descriptions like 'bitterhearted' because they could pack multiple meanings—both the immediate emotional pain and the lasting resentment that settles into a person's character.

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