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Lovelorn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lovelorn

[ˈlʌvˌlɔrn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

unrequited love

Lovelorn describes a state of being in love with someone who does not reciprocate the feeling. Individuals who are lovelorn often experience sadness, longing, and a sense of isolation due to their unfulfilled romantic desires.

Synonyms

heartbroken, unloved, unrequited.

Examples of usage

  • After she rejected him, he felt completely lovelorn.
  • The lovelorn poet wrote verses about his lost love.
  • She wandered the streets, feeling utterly lovelorn and heartbroken.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many poets and writers, like Shakespeare and Keats, have explored themes of lovelorn characters in their works, expressing the pain of unreturned love.
  • The motif of the lovelorn protagonist has inspired countless songs and poems throughout history, portraying longing and desire.

Psychology

  • Feeling lovelorn can lead to actual emotional distress similar to grief, as it involves loss of an idealized relationship.
  • Studies show that unreciprocated love can trigger a sense of rejection, impacting self-esteem and emotional well-being.

Pop Culture

  • Many pop songs, from classic ballads to contemporary hits, capture the essence of lovelorn feelings, resonating with listeners worldwide.
  • Movies often depict lovelorn characters embarking on journeys of self-discovery after heartbreak, making it a relatable theme in storytelling.

History

  • Historically, love letters, often from lovelorn individuals, provided insight into romantic ideals and societal norms of the time.
  • Throughout the ages, societies have examined the concept of love through art and music, often portraying the struggles of those left lovelorn.

Origin of 'lovelorn'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'lovelorn' combines 'love' and 'lorn', the latter meaning lost or forsaken, reminiscent of Old English.
  • The concept dates back to Middle English, reflecting deep emotional states associated with unrequited affection.

The term 'lovelorn' has its origins in the early 19th century, formed from the combination of 'love' and 'lorn', an old word meaning lost or forsaken. 'Love' itself has a rich history, derived from the Old English 'lufu', while 'lorn' can be traced back to the Old English 'forloren', which means lost or ruined. This evocative term gained traction in literature and romance, often used to describe characters who yearn for love that they cannot attain. The concept of being lovelorn has been a common theme in poetry and songs, encapsulating the idea of longing and emotional distress in the face of unrequited love.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,489, 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.