'Ruefully' definitions:

Definition of 'ruefully'

From: WordNet
adverb
In a rueful manner; "`I made a big mistake,' he said ruefully" [syn: ruefully, contritely, remorsefully]

Definition of 'Ruefully'

From: GCIDE
  • Rueful \Rue"ful\ (r[udd]"f[.u]l), a.
  • 1. Causing one to rue or lament; woeful; mournful; sorrowful. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Expressing sorrow. "Rueful faces." --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • Two rueful figures, with long black cloaks. --Sir W. Scott. [1913 Webster] -- {Rue"ful*ly}, adv. -- {Rue"ful*ness}, n. [1913 Webster]