Pronunciation: [pˈɪtɪəbə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "pitiable" is spelled with six letters and is pronounced as /ˈpɪtiəbl/. The first syllable is pronounced as "pit" and has a short "i" sound as in "sit". The second syllable is pronounced with a long "ee" sound as in "flee". The "a" in the last syllable is silent, which results in the final "e" being pronounced with a schwa sound as in "the". In terms of the definition, the word means deserving of pity or compassion.
Pitiable is an adjective used to describe something or someone that evokes or deserves sympathy, compassion, or pity due to their unfortunate or distressing condition or situation. It refers to an emotion or feeling of sorrow or sympathy that arises upon encountering suffering, misery, or weakness.
The word pitiable can be used to describe an individual who is in a state of extreme need or vulnerability, arousing feelings of compassion or empathy. It suggests a level of distress or affliction that is deserving of help or aid. For example, a pitiable beggar on the street might elicit sympathy or feelings of sadness. Similarly, a pitiable orphan left without a home or family can be seen as someone who deserves compassion and assistance.
Pitiable can also be used to describe a situation or circumstance that is lamentable or distressing, arousing feelings of sorrow or pity. It implies a condition that elicits a response of sympathy or compassion. For instance, a pitiable and dilapidated house ravaged by a natural disaster may evoke emotions of pity and compassion. The word can also be applied to describe an unfortunate event or outcome that causes distress or sympathy.
Overall, pitiable refers to something or someone that is deserving of sympathy due to their unfortunate condition, situation, or experience, generating emotions of compassion, sorrow, and pity.
Deserving pity; lamentable; mournful.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pitiable" comes from the Middle English term "pitable", which originated from the Old French word "pitiable". It is derived from the verb "piter", meaning "to pity" or "to feel compassion for". The Old French word can be traced back to the Latin word "pietabilis", which means "deserving pity" or "that can be pitied", derived from the root "pius" meaning "pious" or "dutiful". Ultimately, its root can be traced to the Proto-Indo-European root "pi-", which conveys the sense of benevolence or compassion.
