Ruefully - Definition, Meaning Synonyms | Vocabulary. com The origin of the word ruefully is a Germanic word that means “repentance ” But over time the word has adopted a slightly humorous tone, so you can go ahead and shake your head ruefully at your friend who has just put his boot on the wrong foot — you feel a little bit sorry for him at the moment
Ruefully - definition of ruefully by The Free Dictionary Define ruefully ruefully synonyms, ruefully pronunciation, ruefully translation, English dictionary definition of ruefully adj Causing, feeling, or expressing sorrow or regret: "He gave the young officer the rueful look of a father exasperated with his misbehaving son"