Definition

A state of deep sadness or depression, often with feelings of hopelessness and withdrawal from life.

Example

After the loss of her friend, she fell into a state of melancholia that lasted for months.

Conversation

Have you ever experienced a feeling of melancholia after a long week?

Yeah, it can really hit hard sometimes, can't it?

I find it helps to talk about it with friends to feel better.

Absolutely! Sharing those feelings makes a big difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Melancholia** → It is formed from "melas" (meaning black) and "chole" (meaning bile). The term originally referred to the ancient belief that an excess of black bile in the body caused a state of sadness or depression, hence the meaning of melancholia as a deep, persistent sadness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'black' ('melas') and 'bile' ('chole') to remember that melancholia refers to a state of deep sadness, as if it were caused by a dark, heavy substance.

Visually Confused Words