plaintive
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.
Faith and modesty were qualities in all Heynis’s performances, delivered in a plaintive and haunting tone that is not quite like any other.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 2, 2026
As Rangers people run around with their hair on fire, those words appear more plaintive than ever.
From BBC • Nov. 1, 2024
I remember one particularly plaintive voice on the phone: “Steven, why are you lying to me? What have I done wrong?”
From Slate • Oct. 29, 2024
Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry co-wrote and recorded the plaintive closing ballad “It Can’t Rain All the Time,” titled after a line Draven says in the film.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 16, 2024
He heard distant laughter, the plaintive sound of pipes.
From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin
Vocabulary lists containing plaintive
Grade 11, List 1
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Things Fall Apart
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Night
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
