"Alas" is an expression used to convey sadness, regret, or disappointment. It is often used to lament a situation or to indicate that something unfortunate has happened. When someone says "alas," they are typically expressing a sense of sorrow or a resigned acknowledgment of a negative circumstance.
The word "alas" originates from Middle English "alas," which is derived from the Old French "ha las." It is a combination of "ha," an exclamation of surprise or dismay, and "las," which means "weary" or "unfortunate." The roots can be traced back further to Latin "lasciāre," meaning "to leave" or "to relent."