ALACK Meaning and
Definition
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The word "alack" is an interjection of Old English origin, commonly used in literature and spoken language. It is an exclamation used to express regret, sorrow, or disappointment, often added to express sympathy or a sense of pity.
Derived from the Middle English phrase "alas lack," the term combines "alas," meaning "unfortunately" or "unhappily," with "lack," referring to the absence or scarcity of something. The combined expression creates a sense of deep disappointment or a feeling of sorrowful inadequacy.
"Alack" is frequently employed in a poetic or dramatic context to convey anguish or a sense of lamentation. It is generally used to sympathize with someone's misfortune or express profound regret over a particular situation or outcome. Although less commonly used in modern English, it can still be found in classical literature, historical writings, or theatrical works.
For example, one might exclaim, "Alack, my love has gone astray!" to convey profound disappointment or to express anguish over a lost romantic relationship. Similarly, one might say, "Alack, the poor child has lost her way," to evoke pity and a sense of concern for a lost or abandoned child. Overall, "alack" serves as a poetic and archaic way to convey a deep sense of sorrow, regret, or sympathy.
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An exclamation expressive of sorrow.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ALACK *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for ALACK
Etymology of ALACK
The word "alack" is a contraction of the phrase "ah lack", which was commonly used in Middle English and Old English. "Ah" is an exclamation of sorrow or regret, while "lack" means "absence" or "want". Together, "ah lack" expresses a sense of despair, disappointment, or longing. Over time, this phrase evolved into the word "alack", which has survived in modern English as an interjection or exclamation used to convey regret or sorrow.
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