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grudge

noun

/grʌdʒ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of grudge

A deep-seated feeling of resentment or bitterness held towards someone due to a past wrongdoing or perceived injustice.
"She couldn't let go of her grudge and refused to attend the family reunion."

Detailed meaning of grudge

It involves harboring negative emotions, such as anger, hostility, or ill-will, towards an individual or even a group of people. A grudge often arises from a perceived offense, betrayal, or harm inflicted upon oneself, and it can persist over a long period of time, lingering in one's thoughts and emotions. Those who hold a grudge may find it difficult to let go of their negative feelings and may be unwilling to forgive or forget the past transgressions. Grudges can strain relationships, perpetuate conflicts, and hinder personal growth. Ultimately, a grudge represents a deep-seated and often negative attachment to a past grievance, impacting both the individual holding it and the dynamics of their interactions with others.

Example sentences containing grudge

1. Despite their long history, she still holds a grudge against her former best friend.
2. He carried a grudge against his coworker for stealing credit for his ideas.
3. The siblings have held a grudge against each other since childhood.
4. The politician's grudge against his opponent influenced his decision-making.
5. It's time to bury the hatchet and let go of any grudges we hold.
6. He nursed a grudge against his ex-boss for years after being unfairly fired.

History and etymology of grudge

The noun 'grudge' has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as 'grucche.' It can be traced back to the Old French word 'grouchier,' which meant 'to murmur' or 'to grumble.' The Old French term, in turn, is believed to have its roots in the Late Latin word 'grocire,' which had a similar meaning of 'to murmur' or 'to grumble.' The etymology of 'grudge' underscores the idea of harboring resentment or bitterness, often expressed through murmuring or grumbling about a past wrongdoing or perceived injustice. It reflects the lingering and deep-seated nature of such negative feelings, making it an apt term to describe the complex emotions associated with holding a grudge against someone.

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Further usage examples of grudge

1. The two rival gangs maintained a grudge that resulted in frequent clashes.
2. Despite their efforts to reconcile, the grudge between them remained unresolved.
3. Holding a grudge only leads to bitterness and unhappiness.
4. She finally decided to forgive and let go of the grudge that had burdened her for so long.
5. Their ongoing grudge disrupted the team's ability to work together effectively.
6. Carrying a grudge can weigh heavily on your emotional well-being.
7. Forgiveness can help you release the burden of a long-held grudge.
8. Holding onto a grudge can poison relationships over time.
9. He nursed a bitter grudge against his former business partner.
10. Resolving conflicts promptly can prevent grudges from forming.
11. Letting go of a grudge can lead to personal growth and healing.
12. She harbored a silent grudge against her sibling for years.
13. Grudges often fester when communication breaks down.
14. It's challenging to overcome a deeply ingrained grudge.
15. Building trust can help mend fences and dissolve old grudges.
16. Holding a grudge can hinder your ability to move forward.
17. He couldn't let go of his grudge despite numerous apologies.
18. Reconciliation can be a powerful antidote to longstanding grudges.
19. She carried a grudge from childhood into her adult life.
20. A grudge can sour even the most promising relationships.
21. Resolving conflicts openly can prevent grudges from festering.
22. Holding onto a grudge only perpetuates negativity.
23. Letting go of a grudge can bring inner peace and closure.
24. He finally decided to bury the hatchet and let go of his grudge.
25. Lingering grudges can prevent personal growth and happiness.