Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈdɒl.ər.əs/

Definitions

• Adjective: Expressing or conveying sorrow, grief, or pain; sorrowful or mournful.
• Adjective: Full of sorrow or distress, often used to describe a tone, mood, or atmosphere.

Usage Examples

• The dolorous sound of the violin echoed through the hall, creating an atmosphere of melancholy.
• His dolorous expression showed that he had been deeply affected by the tragic news.
• The dolorous song resonated with everyone in the room, touching their hearts with its sadness.

Etymology

Originating in the early 17th century, "dolorous" comes from the Latin word "dolorosus," which means "full of pain" or "sorrowful," derived from "dolor," meaning "pain" or "grief." The term was first used in English to describe something filled with sorrow or distress.

Synonyms

• Sorrowful
• Mournful
• Grieving
• Painful
• Heartbreaking
• Melancholic

Antonyms

• Joyful
• Cheerful
• Happy
• Uplifting
• Bright

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the word "dolorous" may have subtle pronunciation variations, often with the stress on the first or second syllable depending on the speaker's accent.

Historical Usage

Historically, "dolorous" has been used in literature, particularly in poetry and ballads, to describe intense emotional or physical pain. The term became widely popular in the 16th and 17th centuries and continues to be used in both literary and artistic contexts to describe feelings of sorrow and grief.

Cultural Nuances

The use of "dolorous" is often associated with romantic or tragic themes in art and literature. In many cultures, the term embodies the human experience of sorrow and the universal emotions connected with loss, making it an enduring term in various cultural expressions.

More Information

"Dolorous" is primarily used in formal and literary contexts to describe deep sorrow or sadness. It often appears in works that evoke strong emotional responses, such as in symphonic music or poetry. Understanding its use in such works can enrich one's appreciation of the emotional depth conveyed by the artist.