English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adv

bitterly

BIH-tuh-lee
adv
1
In a bitter, resentful manner.
"He complained bitterly about the unfair decision."
2
Used as an intensifier meaning extremely, especially with cold or disappointment.
"It was bitterly cold on the mountain that night."

How to Use Bitterly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWith resentment or harshness, or as an intensifier meaning "extremely" (especially for cold or disappointment).

Common pairings
bitterly cold bitterly disappointed complain bitterly

Word Forms

more bitterly comparative, most bitterly superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “bitterly” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

He complained _____ about the unfair decision.

Etymology

From Old English biterlīce, formed from "bitter" plus the adverb suffix "-ly".

Rhymes for bitterly

See all rhymes for bitterly →
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial