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Definitions

rueful

[roo-fuhl] / ˈru 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.

"I might have won the World Championship two years earlier than I did," said a rueful Higgins, who admitted that was one of his most painful losses in his 34-year professional career.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Their catch-up turns into a rueful airing out of long-simmering resentments in a way that shakes Jay to his core, confirming some of his own worst suspicions about himself.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2025

Who knows the best way to get out from behind a disaster by striking a rueful pose?

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 16, 2025

Take it from an internet addict now in rueful repair: this is the summer to slam your laptop shut, link arms with your friends, and go outside to touch some grass.

From Slate • Jun. 20, 2025

“Just long,” she echoed with a rueful smile, laying one hand to her slender neck and rolling her head from side to side.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor




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