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Definitions

plaintive

[pleyn-tiv] / ˈpleɪn tɪv /


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.

As he sings on “Come Back,” the album’s plaintive opener, “I had a really strange reaction, delayed I think by simple fear, if I don’t listen I can’t hear.”

From Salon • May 15, 2026

A growing legion of fans have this sort of visceral connection with Kahan’s plaintive folk-pop.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

The English horn issued a plaintive, simple melody, as if trying to evoke older memories of a nearly forgotten time.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2025

The resulting lush and exotic soundscape, featuring plaintive pan flute and sprinkled with birdsong, turned out to be perfect for the game’s spooktastic forest levels.

From New York Times • Nov. 19, 2024

“And do you see her, sir, tolerably often?” asked Isabella in the plaintive tone which just suited her father.

From "Emma" by Jane Austen




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