/ ˈpɪtiəbl; NAmE / adjective ( formal )
1.
deserving pity or causing you to feel pity :
The refugees were in a pitiable state.
2.
not deserving respect :
a pitiable lack of talent
► piti·ably / -əbli; NAmE / adverb
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French piteable , from piteer to pity.