Dolour

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdəʊ.lər/

Definitions

• Noun: A feeling or state of great sorrow, pain, or distress; suffering.
• Noun: The expression of grief or sadness, often used in literary or poetic contexts.

Usage Examples

• After the tragic loss, he was consumed by an overwhelming sense of dolour.
• The dolour in her eyes reflected the deep sadness she felt after the news of her friend's passing.
• The poem expressed the dolour of a broken heart, its sorrow palpable in every line.

Etymology

Originating from the Latin word "dolor," meaning "pain" or "grief," the term "dolour" first appeared in English in the 14th century. It is primarily used in literary or formal contexts to describe deep emotional or physical suffering.

Synonyms

• Sorrow
• Grief
• Misery
• Pain
• Distress
• Heartache

Antonyms

• Joy
• Happiness
• Contentment
• Pleasure
• Ecstasy
• Delight

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "dolour" varies slightly in different regions, especially in British and American English, though the meaning remains consistent. Some regions place more emphasis on the "o" sound, while others may pronounce it more like "doh-lor" or "doh-lur."

Historical Usage

The term "dolour" was commonly used in English literature in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, often in poetic and religious texts. Its usage has since declined in favor of more modern synonyms such as "sorrow" or "grief," but it still holds a place in formal, literary, and historical contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The word "dolour" carries a weighty, almost formal tone, making it more common in written texts, especially poetry, where emotional depth is important. It is used to describe sorrow that is profound or all-encompassing, often in a context that is serious or reflective of deep human emotion.

More Information

"Dolour" is primarily used in older literary works, such as the writings of Shakespeare or medieval ballads, where the emotional and poetic language is highly stylized. Though not commonly used in everyday conversation, it continues to appear in modern literary contexts to evoke a sense of ancient or heightened sorrow.