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Synonyms

ruthful

American  
[rooth-fuhl] / ˈruθ fəl /

adjective

  1. compassionate or sorrowful.

  2. causing or apt to cause sorrow or pity.

  3. feeling remorse or self-reproach.


ruthful British  
/ ˈruːθfʊl /

adjective

  1. archaic full of or causing sorrow or pity

"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 ruthful

Middle English word dating back to 1175–1225; see origin at ruth, -ful

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.

See Examples For:

Solskjær’s side are too ruthful in attack and defence, but can offset these weaknesses by dominating opponents in midfield.

From The Guardian Dec. 31, 2020

So as the Inhabitants doe seldome take a ruthful and reauing experience of those harmes, which infectious diseases vse to carrie with them.

From The Survey of Cornwall And an epistle concerning the excellencies of the English tongue by Carew, Richard

Sometimes the skull and other members of the body were seen detached along the road-side or on a stump, having been taken from their peaceful repose by ruthful hands or hungry dogs.

From History of the Eighty-sixth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, during its term of service by Kinnear, John R.

O that my death would stay these ruthful deeds!—

From King Henry VI, Part 3 by Shakespeare, William

This duty once I promis'd to myself Thou shouldst perform to me; but ah! false hope, Now ruthful, wretched king, what resteth thee?

From A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 7 by Various

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