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Definition of rueful

rueful

/ˈruː.fəl/
rue · ful
Adverb:ruefully
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rueful Lexical Profile

rueful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Expressing sorrow or regret, especially in a wry, self-deprecating, or humorous way.

Example

"He gave a rueful smile after realizing he had locked his keys inside the car."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for rueful

• Nearby Words

rudimentary
rudy
rue
rueful
ruefully
ruellia
ruer

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the noun 'rue' (from Old English hreow, meaning 'sorrow, penitence, or regret') combined with the suffix '-ful'.

Cite this Entry

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