rueful

[roo-fuhl]

adjective

1. causing sorrow or pity; pitiable; deplorable.

   a rueful plight.

2. feeling, showing, or expressing sorrow, repentance, or regret.

   the rueful look on her face.

rueful

/ ˈruːfʊl /

adjective

1. feeling or expressing sorrow or repentance

   a rueful face

2. inspiring sorrow or pity

Other Word Forms

• ruefully adverb
• ruefulness noun
• half-rueful adjective
• unrueful adjective
• unruefulness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of rueful¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, rueful is from the Middle English word reowful; rue ¹, -ful

Example Sentences

“Thank God it could never happen here,” Johnson says with a rueful laugh.

From Los Angeles Times

But, he added, the trip also contained an important—albeit rueful—lesson for him.

From Los Angeles Times

While he enjoys the craftmanship, he admits with a rueful smile that he has still not learned to play the piano himself.

From BBC

The only catharsis or healing to be found in the film comes from the titular apology, more a rueful word of caution than anything else.

From Los Angeles Times

“Then, you know what the Greeks say, ‘May all your wishes come true.’” he adds, taking on a slightly more serious tone with a rueful grin.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• mournful 
• sad