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.

In bad shape or poor condition.

That old car is in wretched shape.

Feeling very unhappy or low.

After that breakup, I felt completely wretched.