Wretched

/ˈrɛtʃəd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

In a very unhappy or unfortunate state.

After losing his job, he felt utterly wretched and hopeless.

Of poor quality; very bad.

The accommodations were wretched, with no heating and dirty linens.

Deserving or bringing pity; miserable.

The wretched conditions in the refugee camp were heartbreaking.

Mean or despicable; contemptible.

He felt wretched for betraying his friend's trust.

Middle English: from Old English wrecched, from wrecca ‘outcast’.

wretched state

A condition of extreme misery or suffering.

wretched existence

A life that is filled with hardship and suffering.

wretch

A despicable or miserable person.

wretchedness

The state of being wretched.

Feeling very unhappy or low.

After that breakup, I felt completely wretched.

In bad shape or poor condition.

That old car is in wretched shape.