Melancholy
Definition 1 of 4
Pro Tip 1/3
Emotional State
Use 'melancholy' to describe someone's sad emotional state, not just a temporary bad mood. After the news of his mentor’s passing, John’s demeanor turned unmistakably melancholy.
Pro Tip 2/3
Subtle Expression
'Melancholy' often implies a quiet, reflective type of sadness as opposed to loud or dramatic. Her eyes had a melancholy gaze as she watched the sunset.
Pro Tip 3/3
Cultural Reference
In literature, 'melancholy' can be associated with romanticism, where sadness has a poetic quality. The poet’s melancholy verses tugged at the heartstrings of his audience.