Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Soulful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽถ
Add to dictionary

soulful

[หˆsoสŠl.fษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

deep feeling

The term 'soulful' is often used to describe music or expressions that are deeply emotional and resonate with the listener. It suggests a depth of feeling that transcends the ordinary, often invoking a sense of nostalgia or profound connection. Soulful performances can stir the emotions, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The word is commonly associated with genres like soul music, which emphasizes emotion and personal expression.

Synonyms

emotional, expressive, heartfelt, moving, passionate.

Examples of usage

  • She delivered a soulful rendition of the classic song.
  • His soulful eyes reflected his inner turmoil.
  • The artist is known for her soulful melodies.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Genres like soul music originated in African American communities in the 1950s and 1960s and are characterized by passionate singing.
  • Artists like Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding exemplified the soulful style, using raw emotion to connect with listeners.
  • The soulful sound often features expressive vocals, making it a favorite for expressing love and heartache.

Literature

  • Many poets use soulful language to evoke deep emotions, drawing readers into their intimate experiences.
  • Works by authors such as Maya Angelou often reflect soulful themes, exploring identity and the human experience.
  • Soulful storytelling resonates with readers, leaving a lasting impact that transcends time and cultural barriers.

Psychology

  • Research shows that engaging with soulful music can reduce stress and elevate mood, promoting emotional well-being.
  • Feeling soulful emotions, like joy or sorrow, can help deepen connections with others and enhance empathy.
  • People often describe soulful experiences as those that reflect authenticity, helping them feel more in tune with their true selves.

Art

  • In visual arts, soulful expressions might be seen in works that explore themes of love, loss, or cultural heritage.
  • Artists like Frida Kahlo are celebrated for their soulful representations of identity and personal struggle.
  • Soulful art can evoke powerful responses, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own life experiences.

Origin of 'soulful'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'soulful' combines 'soul', which refers to the spiritual part of a person, with the suffix '-ful', meaning full of.
  • Its usage became popular in the 18th century, reflecting an increasing interest in the emotional depth of music and art.
  • The first known use of 'soulful' was recorded around the early 20th century, particularly in music genres like jazz and blues.

The word 'soulful' is derived from the noun 'soul', which has its roots in Old English 'sฤwol', and Proto-Germanic '*saiwalล', meaning 'the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being'. The suffix '-ful' comes from Old English '-ful', meaning 'full of'. 'Soulful' first gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the context of music genres such as soul and rhythm and blues, where performers often infused their work with deep emotional resonance. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass any form of art or expression characterized by an emotional depth.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,198, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.