pitiful

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adjective piti·ful \ˈpi-ti-fəl\

: deserving or causing feelings of pity or sympathy

: causing feelings of dislike or disgust by not being enough or not being good enough

Full Definition of PITIFUL

1

archaic :  full of pity :  compassionate

2

a :  deserving or arousing pity or commiseration

b :  exciting pitying contempt (as by meanness or inadequacy) <pitiful wages>

— piti·ful·ly \-f(ə-)lē\ adverb

— piti·ful·ness \-fəl-nəs\ noun

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Examples of PITIFUL

1. She made a pitiful attempt to complete her work.
2. <that piece of junk is a pitiful excuse for a car>

First Known Use of PITIFUL

14th century

Related to PITIFUL

Synonyms

contemptible, despicable, miserable, pathetic, pitiable, sad, sorry, wretched

Antonyms

decent, presentable, respectable

Related Words

deplorable, discreditable, disgraceful, disreputable, ignominious, infamous, misbegotten, notorious, shameful; abhorrent, abominable, beastly, detestable, hateful, lousy, odious, stinking; bad, inferior, lame, poor; disgusting, dishonorable, shameful; meritless, unworthy, worthless; scandalous, shocking, sordid, unsavory

Near Antonyms

admirable, commendable, creditable, laudable, meritorious, praiseworthy, redoubtable; notable, noteworthy, noticeable, outstanding, reputable, worthy; excellent; flawless, perfect; honorable, noble; honest, straight