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Mellow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mellow

[ˈmɛloʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

music

Having a smooth, soft, and pleasant sound, often soothing or relaxing.

Synonyms

pleasant, smooth, soft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mellow

Use 'mellow' to describe a relaxed, gentle, and mature quality in people or things. It is often used for colors, flavors, music, or a person's mood.

  • The mellow light of the sunset made everything look beautiful.
  • He's become much more mellow with age, no longer getting upset about little things.
smooth

Use 'smooth' to describe a texture that is even and not rough, or an experience that is free of difficulties. It can refer to physical surfaces, movements, or operations.

  • The baby's skin felt smooth and soft.
  • The transition to the new system was very smooth.
soft

Use 'soft' to describe a texture that is smooth and pleasant to touch, or a sound that is quiet and gentle. It can also refer to lighting or colors that are not harsh.

  • The kitten's fur is incredibly soft.
  • She spoke in a soft voice so as not to wake the baby.
pleasant

Use 'pleasant' to describe something that is enjoyable, agreeable, or giving a sense of satisfaction. It is often used for experiences, weather, or someone's behavior.

  • We had a pleasant afternoon at the park.
  • The weather was pleasantly warm during our vacation.

Examples of usage

  • The mellow tones of the saxophone filled the room.
  • She has a mellow voice that is perfect for jazz music.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Calm, easygoing, and gentle in character or temperament.

Synonyms

calm, easygoing, gentle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mellow

This word is often used to describe a relaxed, pleasant state of being, especially after maturing with time. It can be used for people, music, colors, or flavors that have a warm, soft, and agreeable quality. It suggests a sense of completeness and satisfaction.

  • The wine had a mellow flavor that lingered on the palate.
  • After a few years, he became a more mellow person.
calm

This is used to describe a state of no agitation or strong emotions, often used when referring to situations, people, or nature. It denotes a serene and peaceful condition.

  • He remained calm even during the crisis.
  • The lake was calm, reflecting the sky perfectly.
easygoing

This word is typically used to describe a person who is relaxed and tolerant. It suggests flexibility and a tendency not to get easily upset or stressed.

  • She's an easygoing manager who lets her employees work at their own pace.
  • He has an easygoing attitude towards life.
gentle

This word refers to kind, soft, and tender actions or qualities. It can describe people, voices, touch, or manners that are considerate and careful.

  • He has a gentle touch when handling the newborn puppies.
  • Her gentle voice calmed the frightened child.

Examples of usage

  • He has a mellow disposition that makes him easy to be around.
  • She is known for her mellow attitude towards life.
Context #3 | Verb

food

To soften or mature, typically referring to flavors becoming richer and more balanced over time.

Synonyms

age, develop, ripen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mellow

Mellow is often used to describe a relaxation or softening over time, typically for food, drinks, or even moods.

  • After a few years, the whisky became very mellow.
  • He had mellowed with age and become more patient.
ripen

Ripen is specific to fruits and vegetables, referring to the process of reaching the stage where they are ready to eat.

  • The bananas will ripen in a few days.
  • Leave the tomatoes in the sun to ripen.
age

Age is commonly used when talking about the passage of time affecting someone or something, especially when referring to getting older or showing signs of aging.

  • The cheese is aged to perfection.
  • She aged gracefully over the years.
develop

Use this word to talk about something growing or evolving over time, such as skills, plans, or projects.

  • He developed his muscles through consistent training.
  • The plot developed in unexpected ways.

Examples of usage

  • The cheese needs to mellow for a few months before it is ready to eat.
  • Let the wine mellow in the cellar for a year to enhance its flavor.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'mellow'

The word 'mellow' originated in the late Middle English period from the Old English word 'melu,' meaning 'soft.' Over time, it evolved to describe various qualities related to softness, smoothness, and relaxation. 'Mellow' has been used in music, personality traits, and food to signify a gentle, soothing, or mature quality.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,964, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.