Woe

/woʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
great sorrow or distress.
She spoke of her woe after losing her job.
a condition of deep suffering from misfortune, affliction, or grief.
The book is filled with tales of woe and hardship.
an expression of grief or regret.
His woe was evident in his heavy sighs.
a lament or complaint.
He expressed his woe to anyone who would listen.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English wōe, from Proto-Germanic *wōjō, meaning 'sadness'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

woe is me:
An expression of lament or sorrow.
woe betide (someone):
An expression indicating that someone will suffer misfortune.
in woe:
In deep sorrow or distress.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Woe is used in modern slang to express exaggerated sadness.
I can't believe I lost my wallet; woe is me!
Woe can signify a situation that is hopeless or grim.
That exam was a total woe; I don't think I passed.