tearful

adjective

tear·​ful ˈtir-fəl 

1

: flowing with or accompanied by tears

tearful entreaties

2

: causing tears : teary

a tearful eulogy

tearfully

ˈtir-fə-lē 

adverb

tearfulness noun

Synonyms

• lachrymose
• teary
• weepy

Examples of tearful in a Sentence

He looked up at me with his tearful eyes and asked for help.

the tearful parting of two lovers

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the two seem to have worked through their issues—in the latest episode, Jessica was even seen comforting a tearful Harry after a heart-to-heart about his reputation. —Meg Walters, Glamour, 12 June 2024

After the performance, a tearful Goldberg hugged her costars, the impact the performance had on the star clearing wash over her face. —Dave Quinn, Peoplemag, 5 June 2024

Warren’s tearful confession is cut short, but it has been established that Kelly was the murderer. —Erin Qualey, Vulture, 8 May 2024

Cortés’ performance is a gem of range, with his joyful hubris contrasting mightily with tearful heartbreak. —David John Chávez, The Mercury News, 24 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

tearful

adjective

tear·​ful ˈti(ə)r-fəl 

: flowing with, accompanied by, or causing tears

tearfully

-fə-lē 

adverb