Definition

Causing feelings of sadness or sympathy because of being very poor, weak, or inadequate.

Example

The pitiful condition of the abandoned puppy made everyone feel sorry for it.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that dog in the park?

Yeah, it looked so pitiful just sitting there alone.

I know, I wanted to take it home with me.

Same here! It's sad how some pets end up like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pitiful → It is formed from "pity" (from Old French *pieté*, meaning compassion or sorrow) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "pitiful" means full of pity or deserving of compassion.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pity' as feeling compassion for someone, and remember that 'pitiful' describes something that is full of pity or evokes compassion.

Visually Confused Words