sadness

[sad-nis]

noun

1. the quality or state of being sad; sorrow.

   It’s frustrating to know the sadness you’re feeling and not be able to help you.

2. an instance of sorrow.

   How can you be so unaware of the sadnesses these children have experienced?

Word History and Origins

Origin of sadness¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English sadnesse; sad ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

The only moods on display are dread, humiliation, anger, frustration and sadness.

Read more on Salon

The crime caused great indignation and sadness in their home countries, where an intense search campaign was launched in the media and on social networks.

Read more on Barron's

"Grande has been acting since she was a kid," noted the Hollywood Reporter's David Rooney, "and her quiet moments of introspection, anxiety or sadness show tender depths, as does her loyalty to Elphaba."

Read more on BBC

You embrace the sadness, you embrace the loss, and you mourn together with this community.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He demonstrated this in his announcement, in which he professed sadness over his decision and had nothing but kind words for other board members.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• anguish 
• grief 
• heartache 
• heartbreak 
• hopelessness 
• melancholy 
• misery 
• mourning 
• poignancy 
• sorrow