Main entry: pathetic, pitiable, pitiful
Definition: inspiring mixed contempt and pity
Usage: their efforts were pathetic; pitiable lack of character; pitiful exhibition of cowardice
Main entry: hapless, poor, piteous, pitiable, pitiful, wretched, miserable, misfortunate, pathetic
Definition: deserving or inciting pity
Usage: 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