Synonyms

pitying

American

[pit-ee-ing] / ˈpɪt i ɪŋ /

adjective

full of or expressing pity.

a pitying look.

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of pitying

First recorded in 1640–50; pity + -ing ²

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.

It elicited pitying sighs from Labour's enlarged cohort of MPs, struggling to fit on the green benches on the government side of the House of Commons.

From BBC • Jul. 24, 2024

Josh: In our quest to become better recyclers, Melissa, I found myself pitying the ephemeral life of a pizza box.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 19, 2024

“I also knew I should be able to tell the darker stories, without having you pitying me.”

From New York Times • Feb. 23, 2023

That is the opinion that has gotten me the most pitying, “poor old-timer” looks.

From Washington Post • Aug. 5, 2022

“Now go and rest, for you look most unwell,” she said with a pitying look.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023