Top 50 Slang For Sorrow – Meaning & Usage

Feeling down and need a pick-me-up? Look no further! We’ve got a list of slang terms for sorrow that will not only help you navigate through tough times but also add a touch of humor to those gloomy moments. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and maybe even crack a smile as you explore our compilation of expressions for sorrow.

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1. Heartbroken

Feeling intense sadness or despair, often due to a romantic breakup or loss of a loved one.

For example, “She was heartbroken when her long-term relationship ended.”
A person might say, “I’m absolutely heartbroken over the loss of my pet.”
Another might express, “Seeing her with someone else broke my heart.”

2. Grieving

The process of mourning and expressing sorrow, often after the death of a loved one.

For instance, “She is currently grieving the loss of her father.”
A person might say, “I’m still grieving the passing of my best friend.”
Another might share, “Grieving is a personal journey, and everyone experiences it differently.”

3. Devastated

Feeling extreme shock, sadness, or despair, often due to a significant loss or unexpected event.

For example, “She was devastated when she received the news of her job termination.”
A person might say, “I’m devastated by the destruction caused by the natural disaster.”
Another might express, “Losing the championship in the final seconds was devastating.”

4. Bereft

Feeling empty or deprived, often due to the loss of a loved one or a significant relationship.

For instance, “She felt bereft after her partner ended their long-term relationship.”
A person might say, “He was bereft of hope after his business failed.”
Another might express, “Losing her closest friend left her feeling completely bereft.”

5. Despondent

Experiencing deep sadness or despair, often due to a difficult situation or loss.

For example, “She became despondent after her dreams were shattered.”
A person might say, “He felt despondent about his future after failing his exams.”
Another might share, “The constant rejection made her feel despondent and defeated.”

6. Mournful

Feeling or expressing sadness or grief. “Mournful” is often used to describe a deep sense of sorrow or mourning.

For instance, a person might say, “He had a mournful expression on his face.”
In a poem about loss, the poet might write, “The mournful sound of the wind echoed through the empty streets.”
A character in a novel might describe their heart as “heavy and mournful” after the death of a loved one.

7. Wretched

Feeling or expressing extreme unhappiness or distress. “Wretched” is often used to describe a state of deep sorrow or misery.

For example, a person might say, “I feel wretched after receiving the bad news.”
In a song about heartbreak, the lyrics might include, “I’m a wretched soul without you.”
A character in a play might describe their life as “wretched” due to a series of unfortunate events.

8. Melancholy

Feeling or expressing a deep sadness or depression. “Melancholy” is often used to describe a state of prolonged sadness or a feeling of being weighed down by sorrow.

For instance, a person might say, “She has a melancholy look in her eyes.”
In a poem about lost love, the poet might write, “The melancholy moon shines upon my broken heart.”
A character in a novel might describe their mood as “melancholy” after a tragic event.

9. Sullen

Showing irritation or gloom. “Sullen” is often used to describe a person who is silent, gloomy, or bad-tempered due to sadness or resentment.

For example, a person might say, “He sat in sullen silence, refusing to speak to anyone.”
In a story about a troubled teenager, the narrator might describe the character as “sullen and withdrawn.”
A character in a movie might be described as having a “sullen expression” after a heartbreaking moment.

10. Dejected

Feeling sad and dispirited. “Dejected” is often used to describe a state of low spirits or a feeling of being downcast.

For instance, a person might say, “She looked dejected after receiving the rejection letter.”
In a conversation about a disappointing outcome, someone might say, “I felt dejected and defeated.”
A character in a book might describe their mood as “dejected” after a series of failures.

11. Woeful

This term describes a feeling of deep sadness or misery. It is often used to express a state of sorrow or grief.

For example, “She had a woeful expression on her face after receiving the bad news.”
A person might say, “I had a woeful day at work today. Everything went wrong.”
Another might describe a disappointing event as, “It was a woeful attempt at a party.”

12. Crestfallen

When someone is crestfallen, they are feeling dejected or discouraged. It describes a state of extreme disappointment or sadness.

For instance, “He looked crestfallen when he didn’t get the job he wanted.”
A person might say, “I felt crestfallen when my team lost the championship.”
Another might describe a failed attempt as, “I was crestfallen when my cake collapsed in the oven.”

13. Disconsolate

This term describes a state of extreme sadness or hopelessness. It signifies a deep sorrow that is difficult to overcome.

For example, “She was disconsolate after the death of her pet.”
A person might say, “I felt disconsolate when I realized I had lost all my photos.”
Another might describe a heartbreaking loss as, “The team’s disconsolate fans left the stadium in silence.”

14. Forlorn

When someone is forlorn, they feel abandoned or lonely. It conveys a sense of being left behind or forgotten.

For instance, “He sat in the corner, looking forlorn and ignored.”
A person might say, “I felt forlorn after my friends canceled our plans.”
Another might describe a desolate landscape as, “The abandoned house had a forlorn appearance.”

15. Dismal

This term describes something that is gloomy or depressing. It signifies a state of darkness or sadness.

For example, “The weather was dismal, with dark clouds and constant rain.”
A person might say, “The movie was a dismal failure at the box office.”
Another might describe a disappointing performance as, “The team’s dismal showing left fans disappointed.”

16. Anguished

This term describes a deep and intense feeling of emotional pain or distress. It conveys a sense of extreme suffering or agony.

For example, “She wore an anguished expression as she received the news of her father’s passing.”
In a story or novel, a character might be described as “anguished” when they are going through a difficult or traumatic experience.
A person might say, “I felt anguished when my best friend moved away and we lost touch.”

17. Miserable

This word is used to describe a state of extreme unhappiness or discomfort. It conveys a feeling of being utterly miserable or wretched.

For instance, “She was miserable after her breakup and couldn’t stop crying.”
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “I’ve been feeling really miserable lately.”
A person might describe their day as “miserable” if everything seems to be going wrong.

18. Sorrowful

This term describes a deep and profound sadness or sorrow. It conveys a sense of mourning or deep regret.

For example, “The sorrowful mother wept at her son’s funeral.”
In a poem or song, the lyrics might evoke a sorrowful mood or tone.
A person might say, “I felt sorrowful when I heard the news of the tragedy.”

19. Blue

This word is often used as a slang term to describe a state of sadness or feeling down. It conveys a sense of melancholy or low mood.

For instance, “I’ve been feeling really blue lately and I don’t know why.”
In a conversation about emotions, someone might say, “I’m feeling a bit blue today.”
A person might describe their mood as “blue” if they are experiencing a temporary period of sadness.

20. Downcast

This term describes a state of being low-spirited or disheartened. It conveys a sense of feeling defeated or discouraged.

For example, “He walked with a downcast expression after receiving the bad news.”
In a discussion about body language, someone might say, “A downcast gaze can indicate sadness or lack of confidence.”
A person might say, “I felt downcast after failing the exam.”

21. Lamenting

Lamenting is the act of expressing deep sorrow or grief, often through vocalization or writing.

For example, “She wrote a heartfelt poem lamenting the loss of her loved one.”
In a song, the lyrics might include, “I’m lamenting the pain that won’t go away.”
A person might say, “I find solace in lamenting my sorrows through art.”

22. Despairing

Despairing refers to the feeling or showing of extreme hopelessness or sadness.

For instance, “She looked out the window with a despairing expression.”
In a conversation about difficult life circumstances, someone might say, “I feel despairing about my future.”
A person might express their emotions by saying, “I’m despairing over the loss of my job.”

23. Distraught

Distraught describes the state of being deeply upset or agitated, often due to extreme sorrow or grief.

For example, “She was distraught when she found out about the accident.”
In a discussion about personal struggles, someone might say, “I feel completely distraught about my current situation.”
A person might express their emotional state by saying, “I’ve been feeling distraught ever since the breakup.”

24. Agonizing

Agonizing refers to something that causes extreme physical or mental pain, often associated with sorrow or grief.

For instance, “The loss of a loved one can be agonizing.”
In a conversation about difficult decisions, someone might say, “It’s been agonizing trying to choose between two options.”
A person might describe their emotional state by saying, “I’m in an agonizing state of sorrow.”

25. Heartache

Heartache refers to intense emotional pain or sorrow, often associated with deep sadness or grief.

For example, “She experienced heartache after the breakup.”
In a discussion about personal struggles, someone might say, “I’ve been dealing with a lot of heartache lately.”
A person might express their emotional state by saying, “I can’t shake off this overwhelming heartache.”

26. Grief

A deep and intense sorrow or sadness, often experienced after the loss of a loved one or a significant life event.

For example, “She was overwhelmed with grief after her father passed away.”
A person going through a difficult breakup might say, “I’m still dealing with the grief of losing that relationship.”
In a discussion about the impact of a tragedy, someone might express, “The entire community felt a collective grief.”

27. Despair

A feeling of extreme sadness or loss of hope. Despair often arises from a sense of powerlessness or when facing difficult circumstances.

For instance, “She sank into despair after receiving the devastating news.”
A person struggling with mental health might say, “I often experience periods of despair.”
In a discussion about the current state of the world, someone might express, “There’s so much despair and uncertainty right now.”

28. Anguish

A deep emotional pain or distress, often accompanied by physical discomfort. Anguish can stem from various sources, such as loss, betrayal, or intense fear.

For example, “He cried out in anguish when he found out about the accident.”
A person experiencing a difficult situation might say, “I’m in anguish over this decision.”
In a discussion about a tragic event, someone might express, “The anguish felt by the survivors is unimaginable.”

29. Misery

A state of extreme unhappiness or discomfort. Misery can be caused by various factors, such as physical pain, mental distress, or unfavorable circumstances.

For instance, “She lived a life of constant misery and hardship.”
A person going through a difficult time might say, “I’m drowning in misery right now.”
In a discussion about a challenging situation, someone might express, “The misery of poverty affects countless individuals.”

30. Woe

A feeling of deep distress or sorrow, often accompanied by a sense of misfortune or difficulty. Woe can refer to personal struggles or a general state of unhappiness.

For example, “He shared his woes with a close friend.”
A person facing multiple challenges might say, “I’m overwhelmed by all my woes.”
In a discussion about a difficult time in history, someone might express, “The woe of war affected entire generations.”

31. Agony

Agony refers to extreme physical or emotional pain. It is often used to describe a deep sense of sorrow or distress.

For example, a person might say, “I’m in agony after the loss of my loved one.”
In a discussion about a difficult breakup, someone might say, “The agony of heartbreak is overwhelming.”
A character in a novel might describe their emotional state as, “I felt a deep agony in my soul.”

32. Torment

Torment refers to the experience of extreme mental or physical suffering. It is often used to describe a state of ongoing distress or anguish.

For instance, a person might say, “I can’t escape the torment of my past.”
In a discussion about a traumatic event, someone might say, “The torment of those memories still haunts me.”
A character in a horror movie might exclaim, “The torment I endured in that haunted house was unimaginable.”

33. Suffering

Suffering refers to the experience of pain, distress, or hardship. It is a broad term that encompasses various forms of sorrow or anguish.

For example, a person might say, “The suffering caused by poverty is widespread.”
In a discussion about a tragic event, someone might say, “The suffering of the victims is heartbreaking.”
A character in a novel might reflect, “I have known great suffering in my life.”

34. Heartbreak

Heartbreak refers to the intense sadness or grief one experiences after a loss or disappointment, particularly in matters of love or relationships.

For instance, a person might say, “I’m still recovering from the heartbreak of my breakup.”
In a discussion about unrequited love, someone might say, “The pain of heartbreak is unbearable.”
A character in a movie might exclaim, “I never expected to feel such heartbreak.”

35. Desolation

Desolation refers to a state of profound emptiness or loneliness. It is often used to describe a feeling of utter sorrow or abandonment.

For example, a person might say, “After the death of my pet, I felt a deep sense of desolation.”
In a discussion about a deserted place, someone might say, “The desolation of that abandoned town was eerie.”
A character in a poem might describe their emotional state as, “I wandered through a desolation of sorrow.”

36. Lament

To express deep sorrow or grief, often through mourning or wailing. “Lament” can also refer to a passionate expression of regret or disappointment.

For example, after a tragic event, one might say, “The whole community came together to lament the loss of their loved ones.”
In a poem or song, an artist might write, “I lament the days gone by, filled with joy and laughter.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “I lament the choices I made that led me down this path.”

37. Tribulation

A period of great suffering or distress, often used to describe a difficult or trying experience. “Tribulation” can also refer to a state of affliction or trouble.

For instance, during a challenging time, one might say, “I have endured many tribulations, but I remain resilient.”
In a religious context, a person might pray, “May God guide us through the tribulations of life.”
A person discussing their hardships might say, “I have faced numerous tribulations, but I have emerged stronger.”

38. Regret

To feel sorrow or disappointment over something that has happened or that one has done. “Regret” often involves a sense of wishing that things had turned out differently.

For example, after making a mistake, one might say, “I regret my actions and wish I could go back and change them.”
In a conversation about missed opportunities, a person might say, “I regret not taking that job offer when I had the chance.”
A person reflecting on past choices might say, “I have many regrets in life, but I try to learn from them and move forward.”

39. Sorrowfulness

The state of being deeply sorrowful or experiencing intense sadness. “Sorrowfulness” refers to a strong feeling of grief or sadness.

For instance, after a loss, one might say, “The sorrowfulness I feel is overwhelming.”
In a poem or song, an artist might express, “I drown in the sea of sorrowfulness.”
A person discussing their emotional state might say, “I am currently in a state of deep sorrowfulness and finding it hard to cope.”

40. Pain

Physical or emotional discomfort or distress. “Pain” can refer to both physical sensations and emotional suffering.

For example, after an injury, one might say, “I am in a lot of pain and need medical attention.”
In a discussion about heartbreak, a person might say, “The pain of a broken heart is indescribable.”
A person describing their struggles might say, “I have experienced a lot of pain in my life, but I keep pushing forward.”

41. Bleakness

This term refers to a state of extreme sadness or despair. It describes a feeling of darkness or hopelessness.

For example, “She couldn’t shake off the bleakness that consumed her after the breakup.”
In a discussion about a tragic event, one might say, “The bleakness of the situation was overwhelming.”
A person experiencing a difficult time might express, “I can’t seem to escape the bleakness in my life right now.”

42. Dismay

Dismay is a feeling of distress or unhappiness caused by something unexpected or disheartening. It is often associated with a sense of discouragement or disillusionment.

For instance, “She felt a deep sense of dismay when she didn’t get the job she had hoped for.”
In a conversation about a failed project, someone might express, “The team’s dismay was evident after all their hard work went to waste.”
A person discussing a disappointing turn of events might say, “I can’t help but feel a sense of dismay about how things have turned out.”

43. Dejection

Dejection refers to a state of low spirits or sadness. It describes a feeling of being downcast or disheartened.

For example, “He couldn’t hide his dejection after receiving the rejection letter.”
In a discussion about a loss, someone might express, “The team’s dejection was palpable after the defeat.”
A person going through a difficult time might say, “I’m struggling with feelings of dejection and can’t seem to find joy in anything.”

44. Crushed

To be crushed means to feel utterly defeated or overwhelmed by sorrow. It describes a state of complete emotional devastation.

For instance, “She was crushed when she heard the news of her friend’s passing.”
In a conversation about a failed relationship, someone might express, “He was completely crushed by the breakup.”
A person discussing a major disappointment might say, “I felt crushed when I didn’t get the promotion I had worked so hard for.”

45. Wounded

To be wounded refers to feeling emotionally hurt or injured. It describes a state of emotional pain or distress.

For example, “She was deeply wounded by the betrayal of her closest friend.”
In a discussion about a personal loss, someone might express, “The family was wounded by the sudden death of their loved one.”
A person sharing their struggles might say, “I feel wounded by the constant rejection I face in my career.”

46. Downhearted

This term describes someone who is feeling low or depressed.

For example, “She looked downhearted after receiving the bad news.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling downhearted lately, but I’m trying to stay positive.”
In a conversation about a disappointing outcome, someone might comment, “I can’t help but feel downhearted about the results.”

47. Desolate

This word describes a deep sense of emptiness and sadness, often associated with feeling isolated or forsaken.

For instance, “The desolate landscape mirrored her inner turmoil.”
A person might say, “I felt desolate after my closest friend moved away.”
In a discussion about a post-apocalyptic movie, someone might comment, “The desolate setting perfectly captured the characters’ sense of despair.”

48. Somber

This term describes a mood or atmosphere that is serious, grave, or melancholy.

For example, “The somber music set the tone for the funeral.”
A person might say, “I prefer bright and cheerful colors, but sometimes I’m in the mood for something somber.”
In a conversation about a tragic event, someone might comment, “The whole room was filled with a somber silence.”

49. Lugubrious

This word describes an exaggeratedly mournful or gloomy expression of sorrow.

For instance, “He wore a lugubrious expression at the funeral.”
A person might say, “I can’t stand listening to lugubrious music when I’m feeling down.”
In a discussion about a sad movie, someone might comment, “The film was so lugubrious that it left me in tears.”

50. Morose

This term describes someone who is sullen, ill-tempered, or in a state of melancholy.

For example, “He sat in the corner with a morose expression on his face.”
A person might say, “I don’t enjoy spending time with morose individuals; their negativity brings me down.”
In a conversation about a disappointing outcome, someone might comment, “I’m trying to stay positive, but it’s hard not to feel morose about the situation.”