v. & n.
--v.tr. (regretted, regretting) (often foll. by that + clause)
1. feel or express sorrow or repentance or distress over (an action or loss etc.) (I regret that I forgot; regretted your absence).
2 (often foll. by to + infin. or that + clause) acknowledge with sorrow or remorse (I regret to say that you are wrong; regretted he would not be attending).
--n.
1. a feeling of sorrow, repentance, disappointment, etc., over an action or loss etc.
2 (often in pl.) an (esp. polite or formal) expression of disappointment or sorrow at an occurrence, inability to comply, etc. (refused with many regrets; heard with regret of her death).
Phrases and idioms:
give (or send) one's regrets formally decline an invitation.
Etymology: ME f. OF regreter bewail