Definition

Feeling or showing a deep sadness or sorrow; often reflective or thoughtful.

Example

She felt a sense of melancholy as she looked out at the rainy day.

Conversation

Have you ever felt a sense of melancholy when listening to sad music?

Yeah, definitely! It can really bring out those deep emotions.

I think that melancholy feeling sometimes helps me reflect on life.

I agree, it's like a bittersweet reminder of what we cherish.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A feeling of deep sadness or sorrow, often without a clear cause. It can also refer to a thoughtful or reflective mood.

Example

After hearing the sad news, a sense of melancholy filled the room.

Conversation

Have you ever felt a sense of melancholy when the seasons change?

Definitely, it makes me think about the past a lot.

Yeah, it's like the memories just flood back, right?

Root Explanation

Melancholy is derived from the Greek "melankholía" (meaning black bile), which is a combination of "melas" (meaning black) and "khole" (meaning bile). The term originally referred to a condition believed to be caused by an excess of black bile, leading to a state of sadness or depression.

Memory Tip

Imagine the connection between 'black' ('melas') and 'bile' ('khole') to remember that melancholy refers to a deep, dark sadness.

Visually Confused Words