rue - Dictionary Definition : Vocabulary.com

To rue is to feel regret or remorse for something. If that position at the deli ended up involving a reality TV show that made everyone famous, you may rue the day you turned down the job.

Rue comes from the Old English word hreowan, meaning "to make sorry," and rue can still sum up a lot of sorrow in one small syllable. Rue is a modern verb that often looks back on the past. Shakespeare made famous the phrase "rue the day," meaning you bitterly regret a moment. For example, you might rue the day you had your first coffee if you become hopelessly addicted to it.

PRIMARY MEANINGS OF: rue

1	v n	feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about sadness associated with some wrong done or some disappointment
2	n	European strong-scented perennial herb with grey-green bitter-tasting leaves; an irritant similar to poison ivy
3	n	(French) a street or road in France

FULL DEFINITIONS OF: rue

1

v feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

Synonyms:: regret, repent

Type of:: experience, feel
undergo an emotional sensation or be in a particular state of mind

n sadness associated with some wrong done or some disappointment

“to his rue, the error cost him the game”

Synonyms:: regret, ruefulness, sorrow

Types:: show 4 types...; hide 4 types...; attrition, contriteness, contrition
sorrow for sin arising from fear of damnation; compunction, remorse, self-reproach
a feeling of deep regret (usually for some misdeed); guilt, guilt feelings, guilt trip, guilty conscience
remorse caused by feeling responsible for some offense; penance, penitence, repentance
remorse for your past conduct

Type of:: sadness, unhappiness
emotions experienced when not in a state of well-being

2

n European strong-scented perennial herb with grey-green bitter-tasting leaves; an irritant similar to poison ivy

Synonyms:: Ruta graveolens, herb of grace

Type of:: herb, herbaceous plant
a plant lacking a permanent woody stem; many are flowering garden plants or potherbs; some having medicinal properties; some are pests

n leaves sometimes used for flavoring fruit or claret cup but should be used with great caution: can cause irritation like poison ivy

Type of:: herb
aromatic potherb used in cookery for its savory qualities

3

n (French) a street or road in France

Type of:: street
a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings