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rue·ful

rueful

 
 
pronunciation:
ru fl
features:
Word Combinations (adjective)
part of speech: adjective
definition 1: inspiring sorrow or pity.
synonyms:
doleful, pathetic, piteous, pitiable, pitiful, sorrowful
similar words:
distressing, lamentable, poignant, poor, sad, woebegone, woeful
definition 2: feeling, showing, or causing regret or sorrow.
Her face wore a rueful expression as she recounted what happened on that day.
synonyms:
contrite, doleful, regretful, remorseful, sad, sorrowful, sorry
similar words:
abashed, apologetic, chagrined, guilty, mortified, penitent, repentant, self-reproachful, unfortunate
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
derivations: ruefully (adv.), ruefulness (n.)