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Definition of ruefully

ruefully

/ˈruː.fəl.i/
rue · ful · ly
Adjective:rueful
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ruefully Lexical Profile

ruefully Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that expresses sorrow, regret, or remorse, especially in a wry, humorous, or self-deprecating way.

Example

"He smiled ruefully as he admitted that his ambitious shortcut had actually doubled their travel time."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for ruefully

• Nearby Words

rudy
rue
rueful
ruefully
ruellia
ruer
ruff

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'rueful' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Rue' originates from Old English 'hreow', meaning sorrow, regret, or penitence.

Cite this Entry

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