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Definition of alas

alas

/əˈlæs/
a · las
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alas Lexical Profile

alas Game Scores & Validity

• interjection

1

Used to express grief, pity, sorrow, regret, or disappointment.

Example

"Alas, the ancient manuscripts were lost in the fire centuries ago."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

In contemporary English, 'alas' is archaic or formal as a genuine cry of grief, and is today most frequently used with a slightly ironic, theatrical, or humorous tone to express mild regret.

• Rhymes for alas

• Nearby Words

alarmingly
alarmism
alarmist
alas
alaska
alaska range
albacore

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 13th century from Old French 'alas' (modern French 'hélas'), a compound of the interjection 'a' (ah) and 'las' (wretched, weary), which ultimately derives from Latin 'lassus' meaning weary.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alas. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alas
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