What does dolent mean?
The word dolent is an adjective that describes something that causes or is characterized by pain or discomfort. It can also be used to describe something that expresses or is characterized by sorrow or regret. In British English, dolent is a common word used to describe a person or thing that is causing or characterized by pain or discomfort. In American English, it is less common and may be used to describe a person or thing that is expressing or characterized by sorrow or regret. The word dolent is derived from the Latin word dolere, which means to suffer pain. It has been used in English since the 15th century and has a range of connotations, including sadness, regret, and discomfort. Dolent is a useful word for describing a person or thing that is causing or characterized by pain or discomfort, and it can be used in a variety of contexts, including medicine, music, and literature. Overall, dolent is a complex and nuanced word that has a range of meanings and connotations.
Causing or characterized by pain or discomfort.
"The dolent patient complained of a sharp pain in their side."
In British English, dolent is often used to describe a person or thing that is causing or characterized by pain or discomfort.
Expressing or characterized by sorrow or regret.
"The dolent tone of the music evoked a sense of sadness."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of dolent
The word dolent is derived from the Latin word dolere, which means to suffer pain. It was borrowed into Middle English from Old French dolent, suffering. The word has been used in English since the 15th century and has a range of connotations, including sadness, regret, and discomfort.
Usage notes
In British English, dolent is often used to describe a person or thing that is causing or characterized by pain or discomfort. In American English, it is less common and may be used to describe a person or thing that is expressing or characterized by sorrow or regret.