I. ˈwō interjection
Etymology: Middle English wa, wo, from Old English wā; akin to Old Norse vei, interjection, woe, Latin vae
Date: before 12th century
— used to express grief, regret, or distress
II. noun
Date: before 12th century
1. : a condition of deep suffering from misfortune, affliction, or grief
2. : ruinous trouble : calamity , affliction
economic woe s
Synonyms: see sorrow