Mood Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜Š
Add to dictionary

mood

[muหd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

emotions

A temporary state of mind or feeling.

Synonyms

disposition, spirit, temper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mood

Used to describe a temporary state of mind or feeling, often directly impacted by immediate circumstances.

  • She is in a good mood after hearing the news.
  • I don't want to deal with him when he's in a bad mood.
temper

Refers to a person's state of mind regarding anger or calmness, often implying a level of irritability or explosiveness. It generally carries a negative connotation.

  • He has a quick temper, so be careful with what you say.
  • Her temper flared up when she heard the insult.
spirit

Describes the general attitude or feeling of a person or group, often in terms of enthusiasm, resilience, or morale. It can also imply a sense of liveliness or energy.

  • The team's spirit is high after winning the match.
  • She approached the task with a positive spirit.
disposition

Refers to a personโ€™s usual mood or general tendency to respond to situations in a certain way. It is more stable and long-term compared to 'mood'.

  • She always has a cheerful disposition.
  • His natural disposition is calm and patient.

Examples of usage

  • I am in a good mood today.
  • Her mood changed when she heard the news.
  • The music helped improve my mood.
  • I can't concentrate when I'm in a bad mood.
  • His mood swings are unpredictable.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

The atmosphere or pervading tone of a particular work of art or literature.

Synonyms

ambiance, atmosphere, feeling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mood

Use 'mood' when talking about how someone feels or the overall emotional tone of a situation. It usually refers to emotions and can change frequently.

  • She was in a great mood after receiving the good news.
  • The movie set the perfect mood for a romantic evening.
atmosphere

Use 'atmosphere' when referring to the overall feeling or environment of a place. Like 'ambiance', it often describes the physical surroundings, but 'atmosphere' can also refer to the general mood of a situation or event.

  • The atmosphere at the concert was electric.
  • The office atmosphere improved significantly after the renovation.
ambiance

Use 'ambiance' to describe the character and feeling of a place or setting, especially in terms of how it feels to be there. It often refers to the environment or the surrounding atmosphere and is commonly used in contexts like restaurants, events, or homes.

  • The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, perfect for a date night.
  • The lighting and music added to the festive ambiance of the party.
feeling

Use 'feeling' to describe an emotional state or sensation that someone experiences. It is a broad term that can refer to physical sensations, emotions, or intuitive states.

  • I have a good feeling about this job interview.
  • He couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched.

Examples of usage

  • The novel has a dark and mysterious mood.
  • The movie captured the essence of the 1950s mood.
  • The painting evokes a romantic mood.
  • The play set a somber mood from the beginning.
  • The music created a calming mood.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Mood can influence decision-making, with people in a happy state being more open to new ideas.
  • Research shows that colors can affect our mood; for example, blue is often calming, while red can increase energy.
  • Music has a powerful effect on mood, with upbeat tunes generally lifting spirits and slower songs evoking deeper emotions.

Literature

  • Writers create mood through descriptive language, helping readers feel emotions like joy or tension in their stories.
  • In poetry, mood can be established with rhythm and imagery, inviting readers to connect emotionally with the piece.
  • Classic novels often use mood to reflect charactersโ€™ internal struggles, guiding the readerโ€™s response to the narrative.

Cultural Expressions

  • Different cultures express mood through unique art forms, like the vibrant colors in African masks representing joy or celebration.
  • In film, the mood can be set through cinematography, music, and setting, directly influencing the audience's emotional experience.
  • Dance often conveys mood, where body movements and styles reflect various feelings, from elation to sorrow.

Science

  • Hormones like serotonin are linked to mood regulation, with imbalances potentially leading to conditions like depression.
  • Studies indicate that physical activities, such as exercise, can elevate mood due to the release of endorphins, our body's natural mood lifters.
  • Sleep has a significant impact on mood; lack of rest can lead to irritability and emotional instability.

Origin of 'mood'

The word 'mood' originated from the Old English 'mลd,' which meant 'heart, mind, and spirit.' Over time, it evolved to refer to a person's emotional state or the atmosphere of a particular setting. The concept of mood has been explored in various fields, including psychology, literature, and music, highlighting its importance in understanding human emotions and artistic expression.


See also: moodiness, moods, moody.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,208, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.