Definitions

wretched

[rech-id] / ˈrɛtʃ ɪd /

ADJECTIVE

terrible, very bad

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abject deplorable depressed despicable forlorn gloomy hopeless miserable pathetic pitiful tragic woeful

WEAK

afflicted base bummed calamitous cheap contemptible dejected disconsolate distressed dolorous down down-and-out downcast faulty flimsy hapless hurting in the pits inferior low low-down mean melancholy paltry pitiable poor shabby shameful sordid sorrowful sorry spiritless unfortunate unhappy vile weak woebegone worthless

Antonyms

STRONGEST

blessed bright cheerful comforted encouraged encouraging excellent good happy hopeful joyful rich worthwhile worthy

WEAK

nice

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.

The fist-pumping defiance from those who have performed so poorly, with Spurs finishing 17th for the second successive season, could have been avoided had they pitched up and performed earlier in this wretched campaign.

From BBC • May 24, 2026

Still, Ohm is more despairing and miserable than any of the wretched worms Scott has acted to date.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

They’re given to those buckling under the wretched weight of their surrounding world.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Had Quins not had such a wretched season, more of the spotlight might have been on Sale.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

But then the earring’s spell must have broken, because Cecilia, looking as old and wretched as her house, hobbled out of her shack.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall

Vocabulary lists containing wretched

"Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare, Act I

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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

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!

100 SAT words Beginning with W,X,Y, and Z

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!