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Definition of wretched

wretched

/ˈrɛtʃ.ɪd/
wretch · ed
Adverb:wretchedly
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wretched Lexical Profile

wretched Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

In a state of extreme misfortune, deep unhappiness, or pitiable distress.

Example

"The refugees endured wretched living conditions during the harsh winter months."

2

Of very poor quality, unpleasant, or thoroughly unsatisfactory.

Example

"We decided to postpone our hike because of the wretched weather."

3

Morally base, despicable, or викликаing strong annoyance and contempt.

Example

"That wretched printer jammed again right before the presentation started."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike standard regular past participles, the suffix '-ed' in 'wretched' is pronounced as a separate syllable (/ˈrɛtʃ.ɪd/). Do not confuse it with 'retched', the past tense of the verb 'retch' (to gag or vomit), which is pronounced as a single syllable (/rɛtʃt/).

• Nearby Words

wrestler
wrestling
wretch
wretched
wretchedly
wretchedness
wrexham

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'wrecched', derived from Old English 'wrecca' meaning 'an outcast or exile', from Proto-Germanic '*wrakjo' (pursued one, exile). The meaning shifted from the literal plight of a banished outcast to a general state of deep misery or pitiable misfortune.

Cite this Entry

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