alas
UK: əˈlɑːs | US: əˈlæs
Definition
interj. an expression of sorrow, pity, or regret
Structure
No data yet.
Etymology
"Alas" originated in Middle English from the Old French phrase "hélas," meaning "ah, wretched." This itself derived from Latin "eheu" (an exclamation of pain or grief) and "lassus" (weary). Over time, it evolved into a standalone interjection in English, retaining its core emotional weight as a lament. The word’s structure is indivisible in modern English, functioning as a fossilized expression of distress.
Examples
Alas, the project was canceled due to lack of funding.
"Alas, I forgot my keys again!" she sighed.
The hero’s fate was, alas, inevitable.
Alas, the cake burned while we were distracted.
He whispered, "Alas, if only I had known sooner."