alas

1 of 2

interjection

Synonyms of alasnext
used to express unhappiness, pity, or concern
Life, alas, is too short.

Alas

2 of 2

abbreviation

Examples of alas in a Sentence

Interjection Juliet's pitiful lament, “alas, poor Romeo, he is already dead!”.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Interjection
But alas, Hazina outlasted even her most devoted fan. Audrey Pachuta, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026 As the video demonstrates, von Ensingen’s drawing (not in the show, alas) collapses all the levels, complete with stairs, setbacks, vaults, and columns, onto a single plane. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 23 Apr. 2026 The fate of all Angelenos, alas. Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026 There’s still a chance Bosa could unite with big brother, Joey Bosa, and dreamers will fantasize for Myles Garrett, but, alas, this pre-draft story is about unproven prospects. Cam Inman, Mercury News, 19 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for alas

Word History

Etymology

Interjection

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from a ah + las weary, from Latin lassus — more at lassitude

First Known Use

Interjection

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alas was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Alas.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alas. Accessed 30 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

alas

interjection
used to express unhappiness, pity, or concern

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