Dour: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is stern, serious, and often unfriendly. Typically, they show little or no humor.

• The professor had a dour expression during the entire lecture.
• He has a dour demeanor that makes people hesitant to approach him.

Used to describe situations or expressions that are severe, bleak, or even frightening. It implies a sense of hopelessness or seriousness.

• The doctor's face was grim as he delivered the diagnosis.
• The future looks grim if we don't take action against climate change.

Used to describe someone who is gloomy, silent, and bad-tempered. This word often carries a negative connotation.

• The teenager was sullen after being punished.
• He answered the questions in a sullen manner, barely looking up.

Typically used to describe a person's mood or behavior when they are deeply unhappy, sullen, and unwilling to talk.

• He has been morose ever since he lost his job.
• She sat in the corner, morose and silent.

Can describe both a person's mood and the atmosphere of a place. Typically used for situations that are dark, depressing, or sad.

• After the bad news, she had a gloomy look on her face.
• The weather is so gloomy today, it makes me want to stay inside.

Describing a person who is stern, unfriendly, or gloomy in appearance or manner. Often used for someone who is serious and tough, and does not show much emotion.

• The teacher had a dour expression, making the students fear asking questions.
• His dour demeanor never changed, even at the party.

Describing a person who is silently showing irritation or a bad mood. This word usually implies sulking or being in a grumpy state.

• His sullenness after the argument made the entire evening uncomfortable.
• She sat in sullen silence, refusing to speak to anyone.

Referring to a state of darkness, sadness, or depression. Not specific to people, it can also be used to describe an atmosphere, weather, or environment.

• There was a sense of gloom in the room after the bad news.
• The constant rain created a feeling of gloom that lasted for days.

Describing a deep, persistent sadness or a feeling of thoughtful sadness. It often carries a poetic or reflective connotation.

• She felt a sense of melancholy when she thought about her childhood.
• The autumn leaves brought a feeling of melancholy to his heart.