Definition

Having a stern or gloomy appearance; serious and unfriendly.

Example

His dour expression made it clear that he was not in a good mood.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I noticed that the new teacher has a rather dourer attitude compared to the last one.

Yeah, I think it makes the class a bit less fun.

It's tough when someone is so dourer; it affects everyone's mood.

Exactly! I hope they lighten up a bit as the year goes on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dourer → The word 'dourer' is derived from 'dour' (from Middle English *dur*, meaning stern or gloomy) and the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A dourer is a person who is stern or gloomy in demeanor.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has a 'stern' or 'gloomy' attitude — that's what a dourer represents.

Visually Confused Words