deplore

American  

[dih-plawr, -plohr] / dɪˈplɔr, -ˈploʊr /

verb (used with object)

deplored, deploring

1. to regret deeply or strongly; lament.

   to deplore the present state of morality.

   Synonyms:

   bewail, bemoan

2. to disapprove of; censure.

3. to feel or express deep grief for or in regard to.

   The class deplored the death of their teacher.

   Synonyms:

   mourn

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deplore British  

/ dɪˈplɔː /

verb

1. to express or feel sorrow about; lament; regret

2. to express or feel strong disapproval of; censure

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Other Word Forms

• deploration noun
• deplorer noun
• deploringly adverb
• undeplored adjective

Etymology

Origin of deplore

First recorded in 1550–60; from Latin dēplōrāre “to weep bitterly, complain,” equivalent to dē- + plōrāre “to wail”; de-

Example Sentences

Many of the Iranian people, even those who deplore the regime, may support the home team in this fight.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Despite the achievements, many deplore the accompanying cost of such urban development.

From Barron's • Oct. 21, 2025

Downey, who plunged into tech’s moral gray zones in his “Iron Man” outings, makes it possible for an audience to both deplore McNeal and delight in the abrasive pleasure of his company.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 30, 2024

The major corporations that responded to AP’s queries said they deplore human rights violations and environmental damage and would investigate.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 20, 2024

If I found matters to criticize and to deplore, they were tendencies equally present in myself.

From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck

Related Words

• abhor
• bemoan
• complain
• denounce
• lament
• mourn