interjection expressing sadness or regret. Alack and alas the tiger had eaten the rabbit.

Where does the phrase alack and alas come from?

Origin of alack-and-alas

An idiom combining a pair of terms with similar meaning. The first syllable in each word is like a sigh; las is from Old French meaning weariness; and lack is from Middle English meaning loss.

What does the word alack signify?

(archaic) Used to express regret, surprise, dismay, etc. ... The definition of alack is a word used to express sorrow or regret. An example of a time that someone might use the word alack is when he is expressing regret for letting the girl of his dreams get away.