Deserving or inciting pity.

A hapless victim.
Miserable victims of war. +
The shabby room struck her as extraordinarily pathetic.
Piteous appeals for help.
Pitiable homeless children.
A pitiful fate.
Oh, you poor thing.
His poor distorted limbs.
A wretched life.

Inspiring mixed contempt and pity.

Their efforts were pathetic.
Pitiable lack of character. +
Pitiful exhibition of cowardice.

Inspiring scornful pity.

How silly an ardent and unsuccessful wooer can be especially if he is getting on in years.