Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

via dolorosa

noun via do·lo·ro·sa \ -ˌdäləˈrōsə , -ˌdōl- \

Definition of via dolorosa

: a painfully difficult route, passage, or series of experiences
  • an epoch which condemns its children to a via dolorosa of examinations
  • —Herbert Read

There's more!

Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!
Already a subscriber? Log in.

Origin and Etymology of via dolorosa

from Via Dolorosa (from Latin, literally, sorrowful road), Jesus' route from Pilate's judgment hall to Golgotha to be crucified

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up via dolorosa? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games