pathetically
Americanadverb
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.
I almost feel bad for him trying so pathetically to defend such an execrable entity like the Iranian regime.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026
O’Brien argued that the nation’s labor laws were pathetically weak.
From Slate • Jul. 16, 2024
But in the conversation of pathetically foolish sports moves in this town, the Wizards finding themselves in this position ranks among the worst.
From Washington Times • Jun. 19, 2023
Rhythmically, spiritedly, pathetically and gayly, “The Broadway Melody” will make you believe it, even if you don’t.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2023
Their eyes waited upon him, tense, anxious, pathetically hopeful.
From "James and the Giant Peach" by Roald Dahl
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
