Daily Word Box

Word

melancholy

noun C1

Meanings

noun

a quiet, lasting feeling of sadness or gloom

Visual cue for melancholy — meaning 1
adjective

showing a gentle sadness in mood, voice, or expression

Visual cue for melancholy — meaning 2

Definition

Melancholy is a quiet, lasting feeling of sadness or thoughtful gloom.

Melancholy is a gentle but deep sadness that often lasts for a while. It can feel calm and reflective rather than dramatic or angry. People may feel melancholy when remembering the past or thinking about something they miss.

Examples

  • A wave of melancholy came over her at the end of the trip.
  • The song filled the room with melancholy.
  • He spoke with a hint of melancholy about his childhood home.
  • There was a quiet melancholy in the autumn air.