interjection
alack
uh-LAK
Alack (interjection) means an old-fashioned exclamation expressing sorrow, regret, or dismay. Example: “Alack, the poor fellow never stood a chance," the narrator sighed.”
interjection
1
An old-fashioned exclamation expressing sorrow, regret, or dismay.
""Alack, the poor fellow never stood a chance," the narrator sighed."
How to use alack
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dramatic, old-fashioned way of saying "oh no" or "how sad" — mostly seen in older literature or deliberately archaic writing today.
When to use it
Archaic; used today only for humorous or theatrical effect, often paired with "alas."
Common pairings
alack the day
alas and alack
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"_____, the poor fellow never stood a chance," the narrator sighed.
Etymology
From Middle English alacke, likely a blend of "ah" and "lack" (in the old sense of "loss" or "failure").
Synonyms
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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").
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