doleful

[ dohl-fuhl ]

adjective

1. sorrowful; mournful; melancholy:

   a doleful look on her face.

doleful

/ ˈdəʊlfʊl /

adjective

1. dreary; mournful Archaic worddolesomeˈdəʊlsəm

Derived Forms

• ˈdolefulness, noun
• ˈdolefully, adverb

Other Words From

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of doleful¹

First recorded in 1225–75, doleful is from the Middle English word dol-ful. See dole ², -ful

Example Sentences

What the documentary describes as the “shock wave” from Jesus’ doleful announcement of profound betrayal within his cohort is seen rippling through the facial features and bodily gestures of the gathered apostles.

From Los Angeles Times

In a sign of the strength of the “Barbie” soundtrack, the winner’s stiffest Oscars competition may have been another song from the film, “I’m Just Ken,” Ryan Gosling’s doleful lamentation.

From New York Times

That doleful mood pervades these interpretations: a sadly beautiful tone; an emotional climax that evaporates rather than reaching a resolution; a heartbreakingly simple plunk of high keys.

From New York Times

With his bulldog build and his doleful countenance, Mr. Young amassed more than 160 film and television credits.

From New York Times

As Hagen, the production’s linchpin, the bass Mika Kares, a newcomer to the cast, was most memorable: aggressive and doleful, stony and agonized, shambling around the set like the overgrown child he is.

From New York Times