The kings of the earth had used the same term in Revelation 18:10. The Greek word translated as “alas” sounds like the groan a person makes in the face of grief or despair or lamentation. Its repetition indicates repeated groaning. Like with the kings, the groan is driven by self-pity.
16 “Alas, alas, for the great city that was clothed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, with jewels, and with pearls!