Resenteeism
What does Resenteeism mean?
Resenteeism is workplace slang for staying in a job you resent while openly or visibly disengaging because leaving feels financially or professionally difficult.
Resenteeism used in a sentence
“He complains about every shift but will not risk unemployment, so his coworkers describe the mood as Resenteeism.”
This example shows the term in context rather than treating the definition as a literal word-for-word substitution. Slang often depends on tone, audience, and the conversation around it.
How do you use Resenteeism?
The term combines resentment with presenteeism. It describes being physically or digitally present while frustration, disappointment, or lack of alternatives makes the employee increasingly negative about remaining there.
Where did Resenteeism come from?
Resenteeism gained workplace-media attention in the early 2020s, particularly after the Great Resignation. As labor-market confidence changed, commentary shifted from workers quitting to workers staying despite dissatisfaction.
Common variations of Resenteeism
resentful presenteeism
A descriptive phrase for remaining at work while deeply dissatisfied.
resent-working
An informal paraphrase for continuing in a job while openly resenting it.
Resenteeism: frequently asked questions
How is Resenteeism different from quiet quitting?
Quiet quitting is usually framed around limiting work to expected duties; Resenteeism emphasizes the resentment of staying in a job someone would prefer to leave.
Why might someone stay in a job they resent?
Pay, benefits, family needs, a weak job market, visa considerations, seniority, or fear of instability can make leaving difficult.