mellow
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɛloʊ/
KK: /ˈmɛloʊ/
adjective
Definition
Having a gentle and relaxed quality, often associated with maturity or richness in sound, taste, or atmosphere.
Example
The music had a mellow tone that made everyone feel at ease.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: mellower
Superlative: mellowest
Conversation
I love how mellow the music is during sunset.
Yeah, it really sets a relaxed mood, doesn't it?
Exactly! It makes everything feel so much more peaceful.
Totally, I could listen to it all evening.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
gentle
soft
relaxed
Antonyms
harsh
tense
unpleasant
transitive verb
Definition
To make something softer, smoother, or more relaxed in quality or character.
Example
The music helped to mellow the atmosphere of the party.
Tense Forms
Past: mellowed
Past Participle: mellowed
Conversation
I think we should listen to some music to help mellow the mood.
That's a great idea! Some soft tunes would really help.
Yeah, it always seems to mellow me out after a long day.
Root Explanation
Mellow → The word originates from Old English 'melwe', meaning soft or gentle. It describes a state of being soft, relaxed, or well-ripened, often used in reference to flavors or sounds.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for soft — that's what mellow means, a gentle and soft quality.
Visually Confused Words
unmellow
yellow
mallow
fellow
bellow