ruthful

[ rooth-fuhl ]

adjective

1. compassionate or sorrowful.
2. causing or apt to cause sorrow or pity.
3. feeling remorse or self-reproach.

ruthful

/ ˈruːθfʊl /

adjective

1. archaic.
   full of or causing sorrow or pity

Derived Forms

• ˈruthfulness, noun
• ˈruthfully, adverb

Other Words From

• ruthful·ly adverb
• ruthful·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ruthful¹

Middle English word dating back to 1175–1225; 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

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 Project Gutenberg

He was looking at her, quizzically ruthful.

From Project Gutenberg

O worthy sir, my cause but slightly known     May move the hearts of warlike Myrmidons,     And melt the Corsic rocks with ruthful tears!

From Project Gutenberg

As the rebuffed philanthropist accepted he cast a ruthful glance at the solitary figure on the bench.

From Project Gutenberg