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Definition of dolefulness

dolefulness

/ˈdoʊl.fəl.nəs/
dole · ful · ness
Adverb:dolefully
•
Adjective:doleful
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dolefulness Lexical Profile

dolefulness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of being mournful, sorrowful, or filled with grief; a gloomy sadness.

Example

"A sense of quiet dolefulness settled over the room as the family packed away their late grandfather's belongings."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for dolefulness

• Nearby Words

dole
doleful
dolefully
dolefulness
doll
dollar
dollarbird

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from 'doleful' plus the suffix '-ness'. The root 'dole' (meaning grief or sorrow) comes from Old French 'dol', derived from Late Latin 'dolus' and Classical Latin 'dolor' (pain or grief), making it distinct from the homograph 'dole' meaning a charitable distribution.

Cite this Entry

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