Definition

Describing something that sounds like a cry of sorrow or pain, often expressing deep sadness or grief.

Example

The wailful cries of the lost child echoed through the empty streets.

Conversation

Have you heard that wailful sound coming from the old house next door?

Yeah, it's really eerie, like something out of a horror movie.

I wonder if it's just the wind or something more serious.

It definitely sounds mournful; I hope everything is okay over there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wailful → It is formed from "wail" (from Old English *wæilan*, meaning to lament or cry out) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "wailful" means full of wailing or expressing sorrow.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'full of' ('-ful') 'lamenting' or 'crying out' ('wail') — that's why wailful describes someone expressing deep sorrow.

Visually Confused Words