Definition of rueful

The word "rueful" derives from the Old French word "ru Feminin," meaning "regret, repentance." The origin of this French word dates back to the early Middle Ages, where "ru" was used to denote sorrow, remorse, or regret. Over time, the word "ru" came to be associated with the herb rue, which was believed to have medicinal properties and was commonly used to treat various ailments such as poisoning and headaches. In French, the common name for rue is "rue," which led to the use of "ru(e)" to describe not just the herb but also the emotion associated with regret or sorrow. As a result, in the Middle English period, grammarians blended these two uses of "ru(e)" and created the word "rueful" to describe a person or thing that expressed regret, sorrow, or remorse, as the herb rue was associated with feelings of contrition. The usage of the word "rueful" can be traced back to the 14th century, and it has maintained its meaning through to the present day, although its usage has become less common in modern English. Today, "rueful" is primarily used in a literary or dramatic context, often to indicate feelings of remorse, contrition, or sadness in characters or situations.