Synonyms for

Wretched

Verb / ˈretʃɪd / Another word for wretched — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

very unhappy, miserable, or unfortunate

Synonyms & similar words

pitiful execrable suffering hapless poor slimy vile miserable woeful unworthy despicable ugly pathetic piteous pitiable misfortunate worthless deplorable miserable pathetic pitiful poor sad unhappy dejected despondent disconsolate distressed forlorn gloomy heartbroken melancholy woeful afflicted agonized anguished brokenhearted crestfallen

Synonyms by register

Formal

miserable unfortunate deplorable pitiful

Informal

lousy crummy awful terrible

Literary

forlorn woeful hapless

Antonyms

happy joyful content fortunate prosperous comfortable pleased

Common collocations

  • wretched conditions
  • wretched state
  • wretched weather
  • wretched person
  • wretchedly poor
  • wretchedly sad
  • wretchedly behaved

Word family

noun wretchedness
adjective wretched
adverb wretchedly

Usage note

Often used to describe extreme unhappiness, poverty, or poor quality. Can also be used to express strong disapproval or disgust.

Example sentences

  1. The wretched weather ruined our picnic.
  2. The wretched smell made me sick.
  3. The wretched man begged for food.
  4. The wretched movie made me cry.
  5. The wretched news made me sad.

Quotes

  • I am the most wretched of men. Tortured by my own creations. - Mary Shelley
  • I am a great and wretched liar. - Stephen Fry
  • It is a wretched thing that the young men of today are so contriving and so proud of their material posessions. - Andrew Carnegie

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