Definition

Showing or expressing sadness or sorrow, often in a way that sounds like moaning.

Example

The moanful music filled the room, making everyone feel the weight of their sadness.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you heard that moanful song everyone is talking about?

Yeah, it really captures a sense of sadness, doesn’t it?

I think it’s the way the singer expresses their feelings that makes it so moanful.

Absolutely, it sticks with you long after you’ve heard it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Moanful is formed from "moan" (from Old English "mōnan", meaning to lament or express sorrow) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "moanful" describes a state of being full of moans or expressing sorrow.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'full of' ('-ful') 'lamenting' ('moan') — that's why moanful means expressing sorrow.

Visually Confused Words