ˈpɪtɪ n. & v. --n. (pl. -ies) 1
sorrow and compassion aroused by another's
condition (felt pity
for the child). 2
something to be regretted; grounds for
regret (what a pity!; the pity of it is
that he didn't mean it). --v.tr. (-ies, -ied)
feel (often contemptuous) pity for (they are to be pitied; I pity
you if you
think that). øfor pity's sake an
exclamation of
urgent supplication,
anger, etc. more's the pity so
much the
worse.
take pity on feel or
act compassionately
towards. øøpitying adj. pityingly adv. [ME f. OF pit÷ f. L
pietas (as PIETY)]