sadness

[sad-nis]

noun

1. the quality or state of being sad; sorrow.

   It’s frustrating to know the sadness you’re feeling and not be able to help you.

2. an instance of sorrow.

   How can you be so unaware of the sadnesses these children have experienced?

Word History and Origins

Origin of sadness¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English sadnesse; sad ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Representatives for the area have described the "sadness and shock" many residents have been feeling.

From BBC

My very best wishes, and with real sadness,

From BBC

She said children were on their way to school this morning but there was a "lull in the air of sadness".

From BBC

Ali: I felt a tinge of sadness and loss watching those flashback scenes.

From Los Angeles Times

It is with deep sadness and unimaginable pain that we share the passing of our beloved “Coach,” George Henry Raveling.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anguish 
• grief 
• heartache 
• heartbreak 
• hopelessness 
• melancholy 
• misery 
• mourning 
• poignancy 
• sorrow