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Alack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alack

[əˈlék ]

Definition

Context #1 | Interjection

expression of sorrow

Alack is an old exclamation used to express regret or dismay. It was more common in earlier forms of English, particularly in literature from the 16th and 17th centuries, often appearing in poetry and dramatic works.

Synonyms

alas, oh dear, woe.

Examples of usage

  • Alack, how my heart aches!
  • Alack, I have lost my way.
  • Alack, that such joy should be so fleeting.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare frequently used 'alack' in his plays, often to convey the despair of his characters.
  • In his play 'Romeo and Juliet', characters express their grief with similar expressions, giving 'alack' a dramatic flair.
  • The word's rare usage today makes it a tool for writers looking to evoke a sense of nostalgia or formality in their texts.

Pop Culture

  • While not commonly used in modern dialogue, 'alack' can be found in adaptations of Shakespearean plays, showing its lasting influence.
  • In contemporary media, characters in period dramas might still use the word to maintain historical accuracy.
  • The word has become a playful anachronism, often referenced in films and books that parody historic language.

Psychology

  • Expressions like 'alack' reveal cultural attitudes toward sorrow, highlighting how language reflects emotional states.
  • Using archaic terms can evoke a sense of drama, allowing individuals to express emotions in unique ways.
  • Studies show that using expressive language can help individuals cope with feelings of loss or disappointment.

Origin of 'alack'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Alack' comes from the Middle English 'alacke', which means 'oh, woe!' and shows a feeling of sorrow.
  • The word traces back to the Old English 'aleac', which means 'to lament'.
  • It was primarily used in literature during the 16th and 17th centuries, especially in Shakespeare's works.

The term 'alack' originates from a combination of the exclamatory terms 'a' and 'lack', which conveys a sense of loss or yearning. Its usage can be traced back to Middle English, where it was often used in literary contexts. As English evolved, the term became less common, but it remained a powerful expression of lamentation in poetry and plays, particularly those of Shakespeare and his contemporaries. Despite its decline in everyday usage, 'alack' has endured in literary references as a poignant reminder of the emotional weight of regret and sorrow.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,730, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.