Chagrin n. A keen feeling of mental unease, as of annoyance or embarrassment, caused by failure, disappointment, or a disconcerting event. “He decided to take the day off, much to the chagrin of his boss.”
Did You Know?
Chagrin comes from French, in which it means “grief,” “sorrow,” or essentially the same thing as our “chagrin,” and in which it is also an adjective meaning “sad.” Some etymologists have linked this “chagrin” with another French chagrin, meaning “rough leather or “rough skin.” Supposedly, the rough leather used to rub, polish, or file became a metaphor in French for agitating situations. English-speakers have also adopted the leathery “chagrin” into our language but have altered the spelling to “shagreen.” (m-w.com)
First Known Use
Circa 1681
ronovanwrites 
This brought memories of my father back to me. Chargrin is a word he often used. 💜
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I don’t use this word often. I think it’s because it’s almost too vague by itself. Is the feeling of unease caused by embarrassment OR annoyance OR what? Hmm I’m probably overthinking it!
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That’s one reason I chose it. I was reading and finally decided to look up exactly what the meanings were.
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Isn’t that funny? As time goes by I find myself looking up more words just to confirm that I’m using them correctly even though I “think” I’m sure I am. 🙂
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This is one of my favourite words, to which my children often say, “what does that even mean, Mum?” 🙂
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