alack
1 synonym for alack, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Interjection — An old-fashioned exclamation expressing sorrow, regret, or dismay.
How to use alack
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
alack the day
alas and alack
Archaic; used today only for humorous or theatrical effect, often paired with "alas."
Etymology
From Middle English alacke, likely a blend of "ah" and "lack" (in the old sense of "loss" or "failure").
Full origin of alack →Frequently asked questions
What does “alack” mean?
The word “alack” means an old-fashioned exclamation expressing sorrow, regret, or dismay. In plain terms, a dramatic, old-fashioned way of saying "oh no" or "how sad" — mostly seen in older literature or deliberately archaic writing today.
How do you pronounce “alack”?
“Alack” is pronounced uh-LAK (/əˈlæk/ in IPA).
How do you use “alack” in a sentence?
Here is “alack” used in a sentence: “"Alack, the poor fellow never stood a chance," the narrator sighed.”
What part of speech is “alack”?
“Alack” is an interjection.
Where does the word “alack” come from?
The word “alack” comes from Middle English. From Middle English alacke, likely a blend of "ah" and "lack" (in the old sense of "loss" or "failure").
