deplore
Meaning
to strongly disapprove of something and criticize it, especially publicly
to feel or express deep sorrow or regret for
Structure
Usage
human rights groups deplore the use of violence against peaceful protesters.
i deplore the lack of funding for public libraries in the recent budget.
we deplore the tragic loss of life in the conflict.
Etymology
the word "deplore" originates from the latin verb deplorare, which is a compound of the intensive prefix de- and the verb plorare, meaning "to weep aloud, lament." this literal sense of "to weep bitterly" was carried directly into middle french as deplorer before entering english in the 16th century. over time, the meaning evolved from expressing profound grief through tears to expressing strong condemnation or regret through words. thus, the modern abstract meanings of publicly criticizing something or feeling deep regret retain the core sense of a forceful, outward expression of sorrow or disapproval, logically extending from the ancient act of lamentation.
Analysis
de- (latin origin, an intensifying prefix meaning "completely" or "thoroughly"); plore (from latin plorare, meaning "to weep, cry out")