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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.

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Measles is the canary in the coal mine for vaccination and public health, and at this moment, the canary is singing a doleful tune.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 3, 2026

“Doonesbury”—which still publishes once a week—has always had more words than most other cartoons and very little action, its closing note often one of doleful recognition.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 19, 2026

With his doleful singing voice and a prolific work rate, he's transformed the sound of música urbana, combining elements of trap, hip-hop and R&B with the traditional sounds of Latin pop.

From BBC Feb. 5, 2026

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

The Demiguise is a peaceful herbivorous beast, something like a graceful ape in appearance, with large, black, doleful eyes more often than not hidden by its hair.

From "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" by J.K. Rowling




Vocabulary lists containing doleful


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