Mournful: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate when referring to deep grief, typically related to death or loss.

• Her mournful wail echoed through the empty hall.
• He gave a mournful eulogy at the funeral.

A general term for feelings of unhappiness or sorrow in various situations.

• She felt sad after saying goodbye to her friends.
• It's sad to see how much the town has changed.

Best used to describe deep and often prolonged sadness, typically involving personal loss or misfortune.

• The sorrowful mother wept at the news of her son's passing.
• His face was sorrowful as he spoke of his old friend.

Used when referring to a thoughtful, sometimes idealized sadness. Often used in artistic or poetic contexts.

• The film had a melancholic feel, leaving the audience in deep thought.
• She often listened to melancholic music late at night.

Suitable for describing a dark, depressing atmosphere or mood.

• The weather was gloomy, with thick clouds covering the sky.
• He felt gloomy after hearing the bad news.

Used in situations involving deep grief or mourning, often related to death or loss.

• The mournful sound of the church bell signaled the start of the funeral
• Her mournful eyes told a story of unspeakable suffering

A general term for feeling unhappy or sorrowful, applicable to a wide range of situations.

• She felt sad after her pet parrot flew away
• His sad story moved everyone to tears

Used to describe deep, profound sadness, especially related to loss or misfortune.

• The sorrowful mother wept over the loss of her child
• His face was sorrowful as he recounted the events of the tragic accident

Used to describe a pensive or deeply thoughtful sadness, often reflective in nature.

• She listened to the melancholic tune of the violin, lost in her thoughts
• His eyes carried a melancholic look, as if he was always pondering something distant

Used when describing an environment or atmosphere that is dark, dull, or depressing. It can also describe a person's mood.

• The sky looked gloomy, promising a day full of rain
• He felt gloomy after hearing the bad news about his friend's illness