What does dolour mean?
Dolour is a noun that refers to a state of deep sadness or sorrow. It is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a feeling of great melancholy or grief. The word can be used to describe both a person's emotional state and a collective feeling of sorrow, such as that experienced by a community after a tragic event. While not commonly used in everyday conversation, dolour is a useful word for writers and speakers who wish to convey a sense of profound sadness or mourfulness. It is often found in historical, poetic, or rhetorical contexts.
nounA feeling of great sadness or sorrow.
- A state of sorrow or grief.
- A feeling of deep sadness.
"The news of the loss filled her heart with dolour."
"The dolour in her eyes was unmistakable as she spoke of her loss."
"The entire nation was in a state of dolour after the tragic event."
Rarely used; often considered a mass noun.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of dolour
The word 'dolour' originates from the Old French 'dolour', which is derived from the Latin 'dolor', meaning 'pain' or 'sorrow'. The Latin 'dolor' is also the source of other English words such as 'doleful' and 'dolorous', which convey similar meanings of sadness or grief. The word 'dolour' has been used in English since the 14th century.
Usage notes
Formal or literary usage; often used in historical or poetic contexts.