Mellow: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.