rue

UK: ruː | US: ruː

Definition

  1. v. to bitterly regret (a past action or event)

  2. n. sorrow or repentance

Structure
rue <to regret, from Old English "hrēowan">
Etymology

The word "rue" traces back to Old English hrēowan, meaning "to make sorry, distress, or regret." It shares roots with Old Norse hryggr (sorrowful) and German reu (repentance). Originally tied to physical pain, its meaning narrowed to emotional regret by the 13th century. The verb form has remained largely unchanged in spelling and core sense, reflecting its Germanic heritage.

Examples

  1. She will rue the day she ignored his advice.

  2. He rued his impulsive decision for years.

  3. "Rue not thy choices," the sage counseled.

  4. The poem speaks of love and rue in equal measure.

  5. They left the party early, later to rue missing the surprise.