English Dictionary
Definition of “pitiful”
pitiful (ˈpɪtɪfʊl
)
Definitions
adjective
- arousing or deserving pity
- arousing or deserving contempt
- archaic full of pity or compassion
Alternative Forms
ˈpitifully adverb ˈpitifulness noun
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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pathetic,
distressing,
miserable,
harrowing,
heartbreaking,
grievous,
sad,
woeful,
deplorable,
lamentable,
heart-rending,
gut-wrenching,
wretched,
pitiable,
piteous,
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inadequate,
mean,
low,
miserable,
dismal,
beggarly,
shabby,
insignificant,
paltry,
despicable,
measly,
contemptible,
Usage examples
You see, this pitiful anatomy of mine, wounded beyond all hope of repair, was quickening.
Clive Barker, GALILEE (2001)But a pitiful one - yes, one - school lunchbox had actual salad in it.
Megastar (2004)Jean Pelletier (CP Photo) Pelletier responded by calling Bédard a " pitiful " single mother who was trying to attract attention to herself.
CBC (2004)I WAS glad to see the BBC apologise for its pitiful representation of the British public on Question Time.
Sun, News of the World (2001)Her first attempts after being strapped into a chair were pitiful.
White, Kathleen, Joni (1994)
