pathetic

adjective

puh-THET-ik/pəˈθɛtɪk/

4 meanings of pathetic

1
very pooradjective
Very bad or weak in a way that makes people look down on it.
Three points in the whole game? That's pathetic.
He gave a pathetic excuse for missing the meeting.
UsagePeople often say That's pathetic! It is rude about a person.
Similardisgraceful, shameful, despicable
Oppositeimpressive, admirable
Note
2
adjective
Making you feel sorry for someone or something.
The wet kitten looked so pathetic that we took it home.
The lost puppy gave a pathetic little cry in the cold rain.
UsagePeople may hear this as an insult, so make it clear when you mean pity.
Similarpitiful, sad, pitiable, tragic, wretched
Note
3
eye nerveadjectiveobsolete
In the study of the body, the same as trochlear.
Similartrochlear
Note

4
adjectiveobsolete
Showing anger or strong feeling.
Similarangry, furious, enraged, irate, livid
Note

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From a Greek word meaning “able to feel”, which comes from a verb meaning “to suffer”.

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 2 facts

Pathetic ultimately comes from a Greek word meaning “able to feel”. en.wiktionary.org
That Greek word derives from a verb meaning “to suffer”. en.wiktionary.org