Bewail

Part of Speech

verb

Pronunciation

/bɪˈweɪl/

Definitions

• To express deep sorrow, regret, or lamentation about something or someone, typically in an outward manner.
• To mourn or grieve over a loss, disappointment, or unfortunate event, often vocally or dramatically.

Usage Examples

• She bewailed the loss of her childhood home, which had been demolished.
• He bewailed the passing of his favorite actor, whose films had inspired him for years.
• It is natural to bewail the outcome of a lost opportunity, but it's important to move forward.

Etymology

The word 'bewail' originates from the Old English word 'bewælan,' which is a combination of the prefix 'be-' (meaning "thoroughly") and the verb 'wælan,' meaning "to lament" or "to mourn." Over time, 'bewail' evolved into its modern form, maintaining its sense of expressing grief or sorrow.

Synonyms

• Grieve
• Lament
• Moan
• Mourn
• Complain

Antonyms

• Rejoice
• Celebrate
• Exult
• Be content

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, 'bewail' is pronounced with emphasis on the second syllable: /bɪˈweɪl/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is similar but may have a slightly softer 'w' sound in the first syllable: /bɪˈweɪl/.

Historical Usage

The verb 'bewail' has been in use since the Old English period, where it was used to denote deep lamentation or mourning, especially in response to death or loss. It was used in both poetic and formal contexts, with notable examples found in works like those of Chaucer and Shakespeare. Over the centuries, 'bewail' has maintained its meaning of sorrowful expression, although it is now considered more literary or formal in tone.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the act of bewailing something is often associated with public displays of grief, such as crying, wailing, or mourning loudly in the presence of others. The verb 'bewail' carries a sense of emotional intensity and is sometimes used to convey not just sadness but also regret or despair. In some religious or cultural rituals, bewailing is a part of the mourning process, as seen in funeral practices and during periods of national tragedy.

More Information

To bewail is to express one's grief or sorrow in a vocal or emotional manner, typically about a loss or unfortunate event. Historically, the word was used to describe loud mourning or lamenting, often in a public or formal setting. While 'bewail' may still be used in literature, it has become somewhat rare in everyday speech, where simpler terms like 'grieve' or 'mourn' are often preferred. However, 'bewail' retains a sense of dramatic emotion and is often used in a more poetic or emphatic context. It is commonly found in works of literature, poetry, and formal speech, conveying the depth of sorrow or regret associated with a situation. In modern usage, it can be applied to a wide variety of contexts, from personal loss to societal issues, whenever there is a need to express deep lamentation or sorrow.