lament

American  

[luh-ment] / ləˈmɛnt /

verb (used with object)

1. to feel or express sorrow or regret for.

   to lament his absence.

   Synonyms:

   deplore, bemoan, bewail

2. to mourn for or over.

   Synonyms:

   deplore, bemoan, bewail

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verb (used without object)

1. to feel, show, or express grief, sorrow, or regret.

   Synonyms:

   weep, grieve

2. to mourn deeply.

   Synonyms:

   weep, grieve

noun

1. an expression of grief or sorrow.

   Synonyms:

   moan, lamentation

2. a formal expression of sorrow or mourning, especially in verse or song; an elegy or dirge.

   Synonyms:

   threnody, monody

lament British  

/ ləˈmɛnt /

verb

1. to feel or express sorrow, remorse, or regret (for or over)

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noun

1. an expression of sorrow

2. a poem or song in which a death is lamented

Other Word Forms

• lamenter noun
• lamentingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of lament

First recorded in 1520–30; (noun) from Latin lāmentum “plaint”; (verb) from Latin lāmentārī, derivative of lāmentum

Example Sentences

That jazz scene has welcomed new investments like Blue Note L.A., and lamented beloved clubs like ETA closing.

From Los Angeles Times

Recalling fond memories of hit albums and runaway successes, she pauses and laments, looking off into the distance.

From Salon

A correspondent based in Ukraine lamented losing her job "in the middle of a warzone".

From BBC

The move was controversial, with critics lamenting the $71-billion purchase price.

From Los Angeles Times

He has denounced the "inhuman" treatment of migrants, urged dialogue in Venezuela and lamented a "diplomacy of force".

From Barron's

Related Words

• bemoan
• deplore
• regret