umbrage
/'ʌmbridʤ/
Definition
Noun: 1. A feeling of being offended or slighted; a sense of resentment or annoyance. This is the most common modern meaning. It describes a feeling of pique or displeasure, often because one feels their dignity has been ignored or insulted. 2. (Archaic/Literary) Shade or shadow, especially as cast by trees. This older meaning is now rare in everyday use but may appear in poetic or formal writing.
Usage
- The word "umbrage" is a formal noun. It is almost always used in the phrase "to take umbrage (at something)", meaning to become offended or annoyed by something.
- It describes a reaction to a perceived slight, which may or may not have been intentional.
Examples
Noun (Feeling of offense):
- She took umbrage at his casual remark about her work.
- The politician took great umbrage at the newspaper's accusations.
- I hope you won't take umbrage if I offer a suggestion.
Noun (Archaic: Shade):
- They rested in the cool umbrage of the ancient oak tree. (Literary)
Advanced Usage
- "To give umbrage": (Less common) To cause offense or displeasure to someone.
- His arrogant manner gave umbrage to many of his colleagues.
Variants and Related Words
- Umbrageous (adj): (Literary)
- Affording shade; shady.
- an umbrageous garden path
- Easily offended; taking umbrage.
- an umbrageous and irritable temperament
Synonyms
- Offense: The most direct synonym in the common phrase "take offense."
- Resentment: Bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly.
- Pique: A feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, especially to one's pride.
- Annoyance: The feeling or state of being irritated.
- Indignation: Anger or annoyance provoked by what is perceived as unfair treatment.
Antonyms
- Pleasure
- Delight
- Satisfaction
- Approval
Idioms and Phrases
- Take umbrage (at): To be offended or annoyed by something.
- This is the primary and almost exclusive idiom using this word.
Noun
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a feeling of anger caused by being offended
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he took offence at my question
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