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Synonyms

heavy-hearted

American  
[hev-ee-hahr-tid] / ˈhɛv iˈhɑr tɪd /

adjective

  1. sorrowful; melancholy; dejected.

    Synonyms:
    downcast, depressed

heavy-hearted British  

adjective

  1. sad; melancholy

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of heavy-hearted

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ogun and Lagos state officials said in a statement that the British boxer was "heavy hearted" over the deaths of the two men, who were both his close friends.

From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026

"I am obviously a bit heavy hearted as it's the game I've loved for so long and given so much to but, on reflection, I am proud and excited about the next bit as well."

From BBC • Oct. 22, 2025

“I feel heavy hearted and cannot contain my sadness as a president responsible for the people’s lives and safety.”

From Seattle Times • Oct. 29, 2022

In an evening spent honoring the life of Kirk Urso, the team could've come out with a determined focus or a heavy hearted performance.

From The Guardian • Aug. 17, 2012

The morning came, the still and beautiful autumn morning, but now all her exultation had left her, and Lysbeth was depressed and heavy hearted.

From Lysbeth, a Tale of the Dutch by Haggard, Henry Rider

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