Definition

Feeling or showing sadness or regret about something that has happened.

Example

He gave a rueful smile when he remembered his mistake.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that rueful smile on his face when he lost the game?

Yeah, it was hard to watch; you could tell he really cared.

I felt a bit rueful myself, remembering when I faced a similar loss.

Exactly, it just reminds us all that losing can be tough sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rueful → It is formed from "rue" (from Old French *rue*, meaning to feel regret or sorrow) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "rueful" means full of regret or sorrowful.

Memory Tip

Think of feeling regret ('rue') and being 'full of' that feeling ('-ful'). This helps you remember that 'rueful' describes someone who is full of regret.

Visually Confused Words