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doleful

[dohl-fuhl] / ˈdoʊl fəl /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When no one is around, the doleful ex-judge listens to Italian gangsta rap, and sometimes even raps along with it, suggesting he isn’t quite the stereotype others assume him to be.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

His agent has booked him a gig as “Sad American,” a role he can easily play with his looming height, doleful eyes and a heart he wears on his sleeve.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2025

That doleful mood pervades these interpretations: a sadly beautiful tone; an emotional climax that evaporates rather than reaching a resolution; a heartbreakingly simple plunk of high keys.

From New York Times • Jan. 25, 2024

Shouldn’t all movies feature a disillusioned astrophysicist, particularly one as charmingly doleful as Stanfield’s character?

From Seattle Times • Jul. 25, 2023

There was only one problem, and that was David, who as soon as we crossed the state line from Pennsylvania had begun to look a little doleful.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama




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