2. The state of holding something in the mind as a subject of
contemplation, or of being inclined to reflect upon
something; a state of consciousness; conviction; feeling;
impression. [Obs.]
He retains vivid resentments of the more solid
morality. --Dr. H. More.
It is a greater wonder that so many of them die,
with so little resentment of their danger. --Jer.
Taylor.
3. In a good sense, satisfaction; gratitude. [Obs.]
The Council taking notice of the many good services
performed by Mr. John Milton, . . . have thought fit
to declare their resentment and good acceptance of
the same. --The Council
Book (1651).
4. In a bad sense, strong displeasure; anger; hostility
provoked by a wrong or injury experienced.
Resentment . . . is a deep, reflective displeasure
against the conduct of the offender. --Cogan.
Syn: Anger; irritation; vexation; displeasure; grudge;
indignation; choler; gall; ire; wrath; rage; fury.
Usage: {Resentment}, {Anger}. Anger is the broader term,
denoting a keen sense of disapprobation (usually with
a desire to punish) for whatever we feel to be wrong,
whether directed toward ourselves or others.
Resentment is anger exicted by a sense of personal
injury. It is, etymologically, that reaction of the
mind which we instinctively feel when we think
ourselves wronged. Pride and selfishness are apt to
aggravate this feeling until it changes into a
criminal animosity; and this is now the more common
signification of the term. Being founded in a sense of
injury, this feeling is hard to be removed; and hence
the expressions bitter or implacable resentment. See
{Anger}.
Anger is like A full-hot horse, who being
allowed his way, Self-mettle tires him. --Shak.
Can heavently minds such high resentment show,
Or exercise their spite in human woe? --Dryden.