forlorn

IPA

Dictionary definition of forlorn

Appearing abandoned, desolate, or in a state of utter loneliness and despair.
"The small town had a forlorn feel, with empty streets and shuttered shops."

Detailed meaning of forlorn

When a person or situation is described as forlorn, it implies a deep sense of sadness and hopelessness, often stemming from a feeling of abandonment or isolation. This term conveys a sense of bleakness and melancholy, indicating that the subject is bereft of comfort, support, or companionship. For example, an old, dilapidated house in the middle of nowhere might look forlorn, or a person who has been waiting for hours in a deserted train station with no sign of anyone arriving may feel forlorn. "Forlorn" underscores the idea of a profound and poignant sense of abandonment or desolation.

Example sentences containing forlorn

1. n the forlorn woods, an abandoned cabin stood, vines creeping up its walls.
2. The forlorn child's tearful eyes sought comfort in a world so cold.
3. The old graveyard had a forlorn beauty, forgotten by time.
4. Her forlorn hope of reunion kept her searching for years.
5. The forlorn dog whimpered, waiting for its owner's return.
6. The forlorn island was a place of solitude and longing.

History and etymology of forlorn

The adjective 'forlorn' has its etymological origins in Old English. It is derived from the word 'forleosan,' which is a combination of 'for,' meaning 'completely' or 'utterly,' and 'leosan,' meaning 'to lose.' Therefore, 'forlorn' originally meant 'completely lost' or 'utterly abandoned.' Over time, the term evolved to describe not only physical abandonment but also a state of utter loneliness, despair, or desolation. When something or someone is described as 'forlorn,' it often implies a sense of hopelessness and bleakness. The etymology of 'forlorn' underscores its historical connection to the idea of being completely lost or abandoned, emphasizing the profound sense of isolation and despair that this adjective conveys.

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Further usage examples of forlorn

1. In the forlorn city, empty streets echoed with loneliness.
2. The forlorn shipwreck bore witness to the sea's merciless power.
3. His forlorn heart ached with the absence of her laughter.
4. The forlorn melody evoked a sense of longing and loss.
5. The forlorn painting depicted an abandoned, crumbling castle.
6. Her forlorn gaze met his, two souls yearning to connect.
7. The forlorn ruins were shrouded in an eerie silence.
8. He found solace in the forlorn beauty of the desert at dusk.
9. The forlorn novel told a haunting tale of lost love.
10. The forlorn letter spoke of regret and missed chances.
11. The forlorn moon cast a pale light on the deserted beach.
12. His forlorn spirit longed for the warmth of human connection.
13. The forlorn town had once thrived but now lay in ruins.
14. Amidst the forlorn landscape, a single flower bloomed, resilient and hopeful.The abandoned building had a forlorn look, with broken windows and peeling paint.
15. The puppy had a forlorn expression, lost and alone.
16. The hiker was forlorn, with no water or food and miles from civilization.
17. The old man had a forlorn look, with a lifetime of memories and few friends.
18. The castle was forlorn, with ivy growing over its walls and a moat full of weeds.
19. The woman had a forlorn expression, with tears streaming down her face.
20. The island was forlorn, with only a lighthouse and a few seabirds for company.
21. The tree was forlorn, stripped of its leaves and branches by a harsh winter.
22. The musician played a forlorn tune, with a sadness that touched the hearts of all who heard.
23. The church was forlorn, with its stained glass windows broken and its pews empty.
24. The sailor was forlorn, with no land in sight and a tempest brewing on the horizon.