Discover the complete list of 42 emotions that start with the letter A, showcasing the wide range of human feelings from Abandonment to Awe. These emotions come from different parts of our inner world, including positive feelings like Admiration and Affection, as well as challenging ones like Anger and Anxiety. Notice how many of these emotions express how we relate to others or react to the world around us. This list helps you understand emotions clearly and deeply.
Explore the detailed table below to learn about each emotion’s type, meaning, example, and description.
Emotions This column names each feeling starting with A, giving you the exact emotion word to recognize and use.
Type Here you find whether the emotion is positive, negative, neutral, or a complex state. This helps you understand the general mood or effect of the feeling.
Definition This section gives a short and clear meaning of the emotion, defining what it is in simple terms.
Example Usage See how each emotion appears in a sentence. This makes it easier to know how and when to use the word correctly.
Descripción This final column provides a brief explanation in Spanish that describes the emotion’s nature and relevance, offering extra insight for bilingual readers or those learning about emotional concepts.
Emotions that start with A
| Emotions | Type | Definition | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abandonment | Negative Emotion | The feeling of being forsaken or deserted. | She felt a profound sense of abandonment after her friends left. |
| Abasement | Negative Emotion | The act of humiliating or degrading oneself or being humiliated. | He felt a deep sense of abasement after being publicly shamed. |
| Abhorrence | Negative Emotion | A feeling of intense loathing or disgust. | His abhorrence for injustice was clear in his passionate speech. |
| Acceptance | Positive Emotion | The act of assenting to or believing in something, or the state of being accepted. | Finding acceptance in her new community brought her great joy. |
| Accomplishment | Positive Emotion | A feeling of satisfaction from successfully completing something. | Finishing the marathon filled him with a sense of accomplishment. |
| Ache | Physical/Emotional Sensation | A continuous or prolonged dull pain, or a feeling of deep longing. | A profound ache in her heart lingered after the loss. |
| Acrimony | Negative Emotion | Bitterness or ill-feeling. | The debate ended with considerable acrimony among the participants. |
| Admiration | Positive Emotion | Respect and warm approval. | Her admiration for the artist’s work grew with each viewing. |
| Adoration | Positive Emotion | Deep love and respect. | The young child looked at her hero with pure adoration. |
| Affection | Positive Emotion | A gentle feeling of fondness or liking. | He showed great affection for his grandchildren. |
| Affliction | Negative State | A state of pain, suffering, or distress. | He bore his affliction with quiet dignity. |
| Affronted | Negative Emotion | Feeling insulted or offended. | She felt affronted by his dismissive tone. |
| Aggravation | Negative Emotion | The state of being annoyed or exasperated. | The constant delays caused immense aggravation. |
| Aggression | Negative Emotion/Behavior | Hostile or violent behavior or attitudes toward another; readiness to attack or confront. | His sudden aggression surprised everyone in the room. |
| Agitation | Negative Emotion | A state of anxiety or nervous excitement. | He felt a growing sense of agitation as the deadline approached. |
| Agony | Negative Emotion | Extreme physical or mental suffering. | She cried out in agony from the sharp pain. |
| Alarm | Negative Emotion | A sudden feeling of fear and distress. | A loud noise outside filled them with alarm. |
| Alienation | Negative Emotion | The state or experience of being isolated from a group or an activity. | His unusual hobbies led to a feeling of alienation from his peers. |
| Amazement | Positive Emotion | A feeling of great surprise or wonder. | The magician’s trick filled the audience with amazement. |
| Ambivalence | Complex Emotion/State | The state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. | She felt ambivalence about moving to a new city. |
| Amusement | Positive Emotion | The state or experience of finding something funny or entertaining. | The comedian’s jokes brought much amusement to the crowd. |
| Anger | Negative Emotion | A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility. | He struggled to control his anger after the argument. |
| Angst | Negative Emotion | A feeling of deep anxiety or dread, typically an unfocused one about the human condition or the state of the world in general. | The teenager’s poetry often reflected his youthful angst. |
| Anguish | Negative Emotion | Severe mental or physical pain or suffering. | The family was in anguish after hearing the news. |
| Animosity | Negative Emotion | Strong hostility. | A long history of conflict led to deep animosity between the two rivals. |
| Annoyance | Negative Emotion | The feeling of being slightly irritated; irritation. | The constant ticking of the clock caused her mild annoyance. |
| Antagonism | Negative State | Active hostility or opposition. | There was clear antagonism between the two political factions. |
| Anticipation | Positive/Neutral Emotion | The action of looking forward to something; expectation or prediction. | The children were filled with anticipation for their birthday party. |
| Anxiety | Negative Emotion | A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an event or something with an uncertain outcome. | Her anxiety levels rose before the important presentation. |
| Apathy | Negative State | Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. | His apathy towards the project concerned his team. |
| Appalled | Negative Emotion | Greatly dismayed or horrified. | She was appalled by the injustice she witnessed. |
| Apprehension | Negative Emotion | Anxiety or fear that something bad will happen. | He felt apprehension before checking his exam results. |
| Approval | Positive Emotion | The belief that someone or something is good or acceptable; a positive opinion. | The artist sought the approval of her mentors. |
| Ardour | Positive Emotion | Great enthusiasm or passion. | His ardour for classical music was infectious. |
| Arousal | Physical/Emotional State | The state of being physiologically alert and stimulated, often sexually or emotionally. | The thrilling movie caused a sense of arousal. |
| Arrogance | Negative Trait | The quality of having an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance or abilities. | His arrogance made him difficult to work with. |
| Ashamed | Negative Emotion | Feeling embarrassed or guilty because of one’s actions, characteristics, or associations. | She felt ashamed of her outburst. |
| Astonishment | Positive/Neutral Emotion | Great surprise. | The sudden twist in the plot caused widespread astonishment. |
| Attachment | Positive Bond | A strong bond of affection, loyalty, or regard. | The child formed a strong attachment to her comfort blanket. |
| Attraction | Positive Emotion | The action or power of evoking interest, pleasure, or liking for someone or something. | He felt an instant attraction to her intelligence and wit. |
| Aversion | Negative Emotion | A strong dislike or disinclination. | She had a strong aversion to public speaking. |
| Awe | Positive Emotion | A feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder. | The sight of the aurora borealis filled them with awe. |
Descriptions
Abandonment
This deep-seated negative emotion arises when one perceives they have been left behind, physically or emotionally. It often stems from loss or betrayal, leading to feelings of loneliness and a lack of support. Understanding abandonment is crucial in exploring the range of human emotions.
Abasement
Abasement is a powerful negative emotion linked to feelings of humiliation or degradation. It can be self-imposed or inflicted by others, often resulting in a diminished sense of self-worth and dignity. This emotion highlights the vulnerability of the human spirit.
Abhorrence
Abhorrence is a strong, visceral negative emotion characterized by extreme aversion and repulsion. It signifies a profound moral or emotional disagreement with something, leading to intense disgust or hatred. This powerful feeling reflects deep personal values.
Acceptance
Acceptance is a comforting positive emotion, signifying the state of being acknowledged, approved, or simply coming to terms with a situation. It brings peace and a sense of belonging, often marking the end of struggle or resistance. This emotion is vital for well-being.
Accomplishment
Accomplishment is a deeply satisfying positive emotion experienced upon achieving a goal or completing a significant task. It boosts self-esteem and confidence, reflecting successful effort and progress. This feeling motivates further endeavors and personal growth.
Ache
Ache can be both a physical sensation and a profound emotional state, often indicating a lingering dull pain or a deep, persistent longing. Emotionally, it signifies sorrow, grief, or an intense desire for something missing. It’s a subtle but persistent emotional experience.
Acrimony
Acrimony is a negative emotion characterized by bitterness and ill-feeling, often arising from disputes or disagreements. It reflects underlying resentment and hostility, leading to strained relationships and a general unpleasant atmosphere. This emotion highlights unresolved conflict.
Admiration
Admiration is a positive emotion involving respect and warm approval for someone or something’s qualities or achievements. It’s often inspired by excellence, courage, or talent, leading to feelings of inspiration and appreciation. This emotion fosters connections and recognition.
Adoration
Adoration is an intense positive emotion characterized by deep love, profound respect, and sometimes worship. It signifies an overwhelming sense of devotion and affection, often directed towards someone or something cherished. This powerful emotion reflects deep affection and reverence.
Affection
Affection is a warm, positive emotion reflecting fondness, care, and liking towards another person or thing. It’s often expressed through tenderness and warmth, signifying a comfortable and caring connection. This emotion is fundamental to close relationships and bonding.
Affliction
Affliction describes a state of profound pain, suffering, or distress, often caused by illness, misfortune, or deep sorrow. While a state, it encompasses the emotional turmoil associated with hardship, testing resilience. This emotion reflects endurance through adversity.
Affronted
To feel affronted is to experience a negative emotion of being insulted or offended, often publicly or conspicuously. It involves a sense of one’s dignity being challenged or disrespected, leading to indignation and resentment. This emotion highlights perceived disrespect.
Aggravation
Aggravation is a common negative emotion characterized by annoyance, frustration, or exasperation. It arises from persistent irritations or challenges, leading to a build-up of stress and a desire for the situation to resolve. This emotion often precedes anger.
Aggression
Aggression is a powerful negative emotion and behavioral drive characterized by hostility, anger, and a readiness to confront or attack. It can manifest physically or verbally, often arising from frustration, threat, or perceived injustice. This emotion is complex and potentially destructive.
Agitation
Agitation is a negative emotional state characterized by nervous excitement, restlessness, and often anxiety. It stems from unease, worry, or frustration, making one feel unsettled and unable to relax. This emotion signals internal discomfort and unrest.
Agony
Agony is an intense negative emotion representing extreme physical or mental suffering. It signifies profound distress, anguish, and torment, often associated with severe pain, loss, or despair. This powerful emotion indicates a state of overwhelming suffering.
Alarm
Alarm is a sudden, strong negative emotion characterized by fear and distress, triggered by the perception of danger or an unexpected threat. It prepares the body for a “fight or flight” response, signaling immediate concern. This emotion is crucial for survival.
Alienation
Alienation is a profound negative emotion reflecting a sense of isolation, estrangement, or detachment from others or society. It can arise from feeling misunderstood or different, leading to loneliness and a lack of belonging. This emotion highlights social disconnect.
Amazement
Amazement is a powerful positive emotion characterized by great surprise, wonder, and sometimes disbelief. It’s often triggered by something extraordinary, unexpected, or beautiful, leading to a sense of awe and fascination. This emotion opens us to new possibilities.
Ambivalence
Ambivalence is a complex emotional state where one experiences conflicting feelings or ideas simultaneously, such as love and hate, or attraction and repulsion. It signifies indecision and internal conflict, making choices difficult. This emotion reflects internal complexity.
Amusement
Amusement is a lighthearted positive emotion evoked by something funny, entertaining, or enjoyable. It often leads to laughter and a sense of lightheartedness, relieving tension and promoting social bonding. This emotion is key to joy and relaxation.
Anger
Anger is a powerful negative emotion characterized by annoyance, displeasure, or hostility, often triggered by a perceived wrong or injustice. It can motivate action but, unchecked, can be destructive. Understanding anger helps manage its impact.
Angst
Angst is a profound negative emotion characterized by deep anxiety, dread, or anguish, often philosophical or existential. It’s an unfocused sense of unease about life, purpose, or the future, reflecting a universal human experience. This emotion explores deep anxieties.
Anguish
Anguish is an intense negative emotion signifying severe mental or physical pain and suffering. It’s a deep torment, often associated with grief, despair, or extreme distress, making it difficult to cope. This powerful emotion reflects profound sorrow.
Animosity
Animosity is a strong negative emotion characterized by active hostility and ill will towards someone or something. It often stems from prolonged conflict or resentment, leading to antagonism and a desire for confrontation. This emotion highlights deep-seated dislike.
Annoyance
Annoyance is a common negative emotion, a feeling of slight irritation or bother. It’s often triggered by minor inconveniences or repetitive nuisances, building up if not addressed. This everyday emotion can escalate if ignored.
Antagonism
Antagonism describes a state of active hostility or opposition, often between individuals or groups. While a state, it embodies the negative emotions of animosity and resistance, fueled by conflicting interests or beliefs. This emotion fuels conflict and division.
Anticipation
Anticipation is an emotion characterized by looking forward to or expecting something. It can be positive (excitement for a future event) or negative (dread of an upcoming challenge). This emotion builds excitement or tension before an event.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common negative emotion involving worry, nervousness, or unease about an uncertain future event. It often manifests physically with symptoms like restlessness or a racing heart, highlighting concerns about potential threats. This emotion is a vital aspect of mental well-being.
Apathy
Apathy is a negative emotional state characterized by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. It signifies emotional detachment and indifference, often leading to inaction and disengagement. This emotion can be a symptom of deeper issues or disillusionment.
Appalled
To feel appalled is to experience a strong negative emotion of being greatly dismayed or horrified. It’s often triggered by something morally repugnant or shocking, leading to profound shock and disapproval. This emotion highlights a strong reaction to wrongdoing.
Apprehension
Apprehension is a negative emotion of anxiety or fear that something bad will happen. It’s a sense of unease or dread about a future event, similar to anxiety but often more focused on a specific outcome. This emotion reflects a cautious outlook.
Approval
Approval is a positive emotion indicating acceptance, agreement, or a positive opinion of someone or something. It brings a sense of validation and encouragement, reinforcing desired behaviors or outcomes. This emotion is crucial for self-esteem and social acceptance.
Ardour
Ardour is a powerful positive emotion characterized by great enthusiasm, passion, or fervor. It signifies intense feeling and devotion, often expressed through vigorous effort and dedication. This emotion fuels creativity and commitment.
Arousal
Arousal is a physical and emotional state of heightened physiological alertness and stimulation. While often associated with sexual excitement, it can also refer to general emotional or mental activation, reflecting a state of heightened responsiveness to stimuli.
Arrogance
Arrogance is a negative emotion or personality trait characterized by an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance or abilities, often leading to disdain for others. It reflects overconfidence and can hinder genuine connection and learning. This emotion often masks insecurity.
Ashamed
To feel ashamed is to experience a strong negative emotion involving embarrassment or guilt over one’s actions, traits, or associations. It often leads to a desire to hide or retract, reflecting a perceived failure or transgression. This emotion encourages self-reflection.
Astonishment
Astonishment is a powerful emotion of great surprise, often combined with wonder or bewilderment. It’s triggered by something unexpected or remarkable, leaving one speechless or in awe. This emotion highlights the unexpected and extraordinary.
Attachment
Attachment is a deep positive emotion signifying a strong bond of affection, loyalty, or regard towards another person, animal, or object. It provides comfort, security, and a sense of belonging, crucial for healthy relationships. This emotion underscores the need for connection.
Attraction
Attraction is a positive emotion characterized by a feeling of interest, pleasure, or liking towards someone or something. It can be romantic, platonic, or aesthetic, drawing individuals together. This emotion is often the first step in forming connections.
Aversion
Aversion is a strong negative emotion reflecting a powerful dislike or disinclination towards something or someone. It signifies repulsion and a desire to avoid the object of the feeling. This emotion acts as a natural defense mechanism.
Awe
Awe is a profound positive emotion characterized by a mix of reverence, fear, and wonder, often inspired by something vast, powerful, or beautiful. It can evoke a sense of insignificance while also inspiring deep appreciation. This emotion connects us to the sublime.