Rueful: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'rūfan', which means to feel regret or sorrow.
• It shares roots with the word 'rue', which means to regret bitterly.
• The term has been used in English since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the language.

Literature

• In Shakespeare's plays, characters often express rueful feelings when confronted with the consequences of their actions.
• The term is frequently used in poetry to evoke deep emotional responses, highlighting a character’s internal struggle.
• Modern literature often depicts characters as rueful after realizing their mistakes, making them relatable to readers.

Psychology

• Feeling rueful is closely linked to experiences of guilt and remorse, which can impact mental health.
• Research indicates that rueful feelings can motivate personal growth and positive behavioral changes.
• Understanding ruefulness can help in emotional regulation, allowing individuals to reconcile with past mistakes.

Pop Culture

• Characters in films and TV shows often display rueful expressions when facing the aftermath of poor decisions, making the audience empathize with their plight.
• In music, songs often express rueful themes, reflecting on lost love or missed opportunities, resonating with listeners.
• This sentiment is prevalent in cartoons, where a character's rueful look can signify comic failure, lightening serious themes.

At rank #25,801, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25798 disingenuous
• 25799 uninvited
• 25800 jesting
• 25801 rueful
• 25802 quipped
• 25803 shrew
• 25804 afflicting
• ...