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Lament

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To express sorrow, grief, or regret, especially in a vocal or public manner.
2. A passionate expression of grief or sorrow, often in the form of a song, poem, or speech.
3. To mourn or grieve over something, especially something lost or gone.
4. A song, poem, or piece of writing that expresses sorrow or mourning.

History and Origin

The word “lament” comes from the Latin lamentari, meaning “to weep or mourn.” It evolved from the root lamen meaning “a wailing” or “a cry of grief.” The term has been used since the Middle Ages to describe public mourning or expressions of sorrow, particularly in the form of elegies or dirges. Over time, “lament” expanded beyond its literal use of weeping to encompass any expression of deep sorrow, both spoken and written. The word has been used in both personal contexts of grief and in broader cultural expressions of loss or regret.

Detailed Explanation

“Lament” primarily refers to the expression of sorrow, regret, or grief, often in reaction to a loss, disappointment, or some kind of tragedy. It can take the form of words, actions, or even artistic expressions, such as poetry or music. A lament is typically a public or intense display of mourning, but it can also be personal. While the term traditionally refers to sadness in the face of death, it can apply to any situation that causes deep sorrow. For instance, people may lament the loss of a cherished opportunity, a past relationship, or a personal failure. The term can also refer to a specific artistic work created to express such feelings.

Example Sentences

1. The mother lamented the loss of her child, crying for hours.
2. He wrote a poem to lament the passing of his beloved dog.
3. The people of the town lamented the destruction caused by the storm.
4. She could not help but lament the end of an era in her life.
5. The singer’s voice was full of sorrow as she lamented the death of her friend.
6. The artist created a painting to lament the loss of innocence in society.
7. His eyes filled with tears as he lamented the failure of his dreams.
8. They gathered to lament the untimely death of their leader.
9. The nation’s leaders lamented the hardships faced by the citizens after the war.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Mourn – To feel or show deep sorrow for a loss, especially a death.
2. Grieve – To experience intense sorrow or sadness, typically after a loss.
3. Bemoan – To express regret or sorrow about something, often in a vocal manner.
4. Weep – To shed tears, usually due to grief or sorrow, similar to lamenting.
5. Rue – To feel sorrow or regret for something that has happened or been lost.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Sorrow – A feeling of deep sadness or grief, often experienced alongside lamentation.
2. Sadness – A feeling of unhappiness or sorrow, which can lead to lamenting.
3. Dirge – A funeral song or lament expressing mourning or sorrow.
4. Elegy – A poem or song expressing sorrow, often in remembrance of someone or something lost.
5. Regret – A feeling of sorrow or remorse about something done or not done, often leading to lamentation.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Wail – A prolonged cry of grief or sorrow, often part of lamenting.
2. Complaining – Expressing dissatisfaction or regret, sometimes in a lamenting manner.
3. Repine – To feel or express discontent, often involving lamentation.
4. Longing – A deep desire or yearning, often connected with regret or sorrow.
5. Despair – A sense of hopelessness or loss, which can lead to lamenting.

Antonyms

1. Celebrate
2. Rejoice
3. Be happy
4. Complain (in a less serious sense)
5. Exult