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Definition of plaintive

plaintive

/ˈpleɪn.tɪv/
plain · tive
Adverb:plaintively
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plaintive Lexical Profile

plaintive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Sounding sad, mournful, or wistful, especially in a weak, high-pitched, or appealing manner.

Example

"The solitary cello played a plaintive melody that echoed softly through the empty concert hall."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for plaintive

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'plaintive' with 'plaintiff', its legal cognate referring to the party who brings a lawsuit in court; while both share the same root meaning 'complaint', 'plaintive' strictly describes a mournful or sorrowful sound or expression.

• Nearby Words

plainspoken
plainspokenness
plaintiff
plaintive
plaintively
plait
plan

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in Middle English from Old French 'plaintif' (aggrieved, lamenting), derived from 'plainte' (lament, complaint), from Latin 'planctus' (a striking or beating of the breast in grief), from 'plangere' (to strike, lament).

Cite this Entry

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