Piteous/ˈpɪtiəs/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Pity Request Piteous often highlights a deliberate attempt to evoke sympathy. His piteous appeal for another chance was hard to ignore. Pro Tip 2/3Subtle Manipulation Sometimes 'piteous' describes behavior that can be manipulative. She gave a piteous sob, making everyone immediately attentive. Pro Tip 3/3Not Always Genuine Piteous expressions or actions aren't always genuine; they can be exaggerated. The actor's piteous performance seemed overdone.