resentful
UK[rɪˈzɛntf(ə)l]US[rɪˈzɛntfəl]
adj
Feeling or expressing bitterness or indignation at having been treated unfairly.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
sent
ful
re
again
sent
feel
ful
full of
Etymology
The word 'resentful' is built upon the verb 'resent', which entered English in the late 16th century from French ressentir, itself from Latin re- (expressing intensive force) and sentire (to feel). The core concept is of feeling something strongly again, or re-feeling a perceived wrong. The suffix '-ful' (from Old English) was later added to form the adjective, characterizing someone as being "full of" this intense feeling of aggrievement. Thus, the modern meaning logically evolves from the literal idea of being "full of feeling again"—specifically, the persistent, bitter feeling associated with a past injury or insult.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + sent (feel) + ful (full of)
- re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
- sent: From Latin sentire, meaning "to feel".
- ful: Old English origin, a suffix forming adjectives meaning "full of" or "characterized by".
Examples
She gave him a resentful glare after he took credit for her idea.
He felt deeply resentful about the lack of recognition for his hard work.
A resentful atmosphere hung over the office following the unfair promotions.