tear-stained

[ teer-steynd ]

adjective

1. marked or wet with tears:

   a tear-stained letter.

2. showing traces of tears or signs of having wept:

   tear-stained cheeks.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tear-stained¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

Mourners were interviewed, provided they were tear-stained and came only to praise their departed leader.

From The Daily Beast

In the tear-stained story of humanity there has never been aught to surpass the thrilling record of Cawnpore.

From Project Gutenberg

I should be ashamed that pages, tear-stained and dream-haunted, should fall beneath the eyes of grave, sober-minded folk.

From Project Gutenberg

I had fears that I might find you alone in a darkened room, with tear-stained eyes and sal-volatile by your side.

From Project Gutenberg

Even the tear-stained faces of mothers and sweethearts did not influence these young men from rallying around their flag.

From Project Gutenberg

"I hope so, darling," her father replied, bestowing another kiss upon the sweet little tear-stained face.

From Project Gutenberg