inspiring mixed contempt and pity; their efforts were pathetic; pitiable lack of character; pitiful exhibition of cowardice
deserving or inciting pity; a hapless victim; miserable victims of war; the shabby room struck her as extraordinarily pathetic- Galsworthy; piteous appeals for help; pitiable homeless children; a pitiful fate; Oh, you poor thing; his poor distorted limbs; a wretched life
[ Syn: hapless , miserable , misfortunate , pathetic , piteous , pitiful , poor , wretched ]