From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:
Bitterness \Bit"ter*ness\, n. [AS. biternys; biter better + -nys
= -ness.]
1. The quality or state of being bitter, sharp, or acrid, in
either a literal or figurative sense; implacableness;
resentfulness; severity; keenness of reproach or sarcasm;
deep distress, grief, or vexation of mind.
[1913 Webster]
The lip that curls with bitterness. --Percival.
[1913 Webster]
I will complain in the bitterness of my soul. --Job
vii. 11.
[1913 Webster]
2. A state of extreme impiety or enmity to God.
[1913 Webster]
Thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond
of iniquity. --Acts viii.
23.
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3. Dangerous error, or schism, tending to draw persons to
apostasy.
[1913 Webster]
Looking diligently, . . . lest any root of
bitterness springing up trouble you. --Heb. xii.
15.
[1913 Webster]
From WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006) [wn]:
bitterness
n 1: a feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will [syn:
{resentment}, {bitterness}, {gall}, {rancor}, {rancour}]
2: a rough and bitter manner [syn: {bitterness}, {acrimony},
{acerbity}, {jaundice}, {tartness}, {thorniness}]
3: the taste experience when quinine or coffee is taken into the
mouth [syn: {bitter}, {bitterness}]
4: the property of having a harsh unpleasant taste [syn:
{bitterness}, {bitter}]
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