Mopey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mopey

[ˈmoʊ.pi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

sad mood

Mopey describes a state of being sad, dejected, or in low spirits. It often refers to someone who is sulking or seems to be unwilling to engage in cheerful or lively behavior.

Synonyms

dejected, dour, melancholy, morose, sullen.

Examples of usage

  • He felt mopey after receiving the bad news.
  • She tends to get mopey when it rains.
  • Don't be so mopey; let's go out and have some fun!
  • After the argument, he was in a mopey mood all day.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Mopey feelings can be linked to temporary mood changes due to stress or fatigue.
  • Social support and engaging in activities can help reduce feelings of being mopey.
  • Psychologists suggest that being mopey occasionally is normal and can be part of the human emotional experience.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies and TV shows, a mopey character often contrasts with more cheerful counterparts to emphasize emotional struggles.
  • Songs about feeling mopey often reflect themes of heartbreak, disappointment, and the ups and downs of life.
  • Popular animated characters, like Eeyore from Winnie-the-Pooh, embody a mopey personality, making it relatable for audiences.

Literature

  • Characters in classic literature often go through mopey phases, capturing the essence of human experience and deep emotions.
  • Poets frequently explore themes of melancholy and sadness, expressing mopey sentiments as part of the human condition.
  • The use of 'mopey' in literature often symbolizes a conflict or internal struggle, leading to character development.

Origin of 'mopey'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mopey' comes from the early 19th century and is related to the word 'mope', which means to be gloomy or sulky.
  • It likely traces back to the Middle English word 'mopen', which also meant to sulk.
  • The suffix '-y' is often added to words to create adjectives that describe a state of being.

The word 'mopey' is a relatively modern addition to the English lexicon, deriving from the informal term 'mope,' which originated in the early 19th century. The verb 'mope' means to sulk or brood, and it is believed to have come from the dialectal term 'mope' used in the sense of 'to waste time.' The first known use of 'mope' in print dates back to 1823, and over time, 'mopey' evolved to describe a characteristic demeanor associated with those who often sulk or appear gloomy. This evolution reflects the natural progression of language, where terms can shift from verb to adjective as language speakers seek to encapsulate emotional states with descriptive adjectives. The continued usage of 'mopey' is particularly prominent in informal contexts, capturing the essence of a sadness that is both visible and contagious.