Definition

Describing something that is heavy, dull, or lacking in brightness or energy.

Example

The sky was leaden, making the day feel gloomy and heavy.

Conversation

I woke up to a leaden sky this morning, and it really put me in a bad mood.

Yeah, those gray days can be so depressing sometimes.

Exactly! I feel like everything is just so leaden and dull.

Let's do something fun to lift our spirits!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leaden → The word originates from Old English 'lead' (meaning the metal lead) and the suffix '-en' (meaning made of or pertaining to). Thus, 'leaden' describes something that is made of or resembles lead, often implying heaviness or dullness.

Memory Tip

Think of the metal lead, which is heavy, to remember that 'leaden' means something that is heavy or dull, like lead.

Visually Confused Words