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.

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ruthful British  

/ ˈruːθfʊl /

adjective

1. archaic full of or causing sorrow or pity

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Other Word Forms

• ruthfully adverb
• ruthfulness noun

Etymology

Origin of ruthful

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

Example Sentences

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

These little books contained, also, concise aphorisms and weighty words of advice like "After dinner rest awhile; after supper run a mile," and "Be vigilant, be truthful and your life will never be ruthful."

From A Son of the Middle Border by Garland, Hamlin

Never," answered Roxy with a ruthful smile; "but, Phyllis, in school I listen.

From Phyllis by Johnson, Percy D.

Long did I stand, in the sunshine of that day when first I saw the ruin, wondering and distressed, ruthful, indignant that such things should be.

From Yet Again by Beerbohm, Max, Sir

P unctual be throughout the day; O bedient to superiors; I ndustrious in every way; N ot haughty to inferiors: T ruthful in word, and trim in dress; S hun folly, and for wisdom press.

From The Little Gleaner, Vol. X. A Monthly Magazine for the Young by Various