Meaning & Definition of word "Rue"

Rue

/ruː/

noun:

  • 1. sorrow or regret.
    • Example: There was a sense of rue in his voice as he spoke about the lost opportunities.
  • 2. a bitter herb used in medicine and cooking.
    • Example: The chef added rue to the sauce for a unique flavor.

verb:

  • 1. to feel remorse or regret for something.
    • Example: He will rue the day he dismissed her talent.
  • 2. to wish that something had not happened.
    • Example: She ruefully recalled her mistakes from the past.

Etymology

Middle English, from the Old French 'ruer', from Latin 'rugere' meaning to cry out.

Common Phrases and Expressions

rue the day:

to regret a specific event or decision that has lasting consequences.

rue the loss:

to feel sorrowful about something that has been lost.

Related Words

remorse:

a deep sense of regret or guilt for a wrong committed.

regret:

a feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.

Slang Meanings of rue

Meaning: to feel bad about a decision or action.

Example Sentence: He really rues not studying hard enough for the test.

Meaning: to express sorrow or disappointment in a casual way.

Example Sentence: I'm rueing my choice to skip that party.