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Sullenly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sullenly

[ˈsʌlənli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a moodily silent and ill-humored manner

If someone is sullenly, they are behaving in a gloomy and bad-tempered way, refusing to speak or be pleasant to people around them.

Synonyms

gloomily, moody, sulkily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sullenly

Use this word to describe someone who is quietly angry or resentful. It often implies a sense of stubbornness and unfriendliness.

  • She sullenly refused to speak to anyone after the argument
sulkily

This word should be used when someone is displaying a childish form of silent anger. It often carries a negative connotation, implying petulance.

  • He sat sulkily in the corner after his mother told him he couldn't have ice cream
moody

Use this word to describe someone whose mood changes frequently, often without a clear reason. It can be neutral or slightly negative, depending on the context.

  • She can be very moody, happy one minute and upset the next
gloomily

This word is best used to describe a dark or depressing mood. It often implies sadness or a sense of hopelessness.

  • He looked out the window gloomily, watching the rain fall

Examples of usage

  • She sat sullenly in the corner, refusing to join in the conversation.
  • He answered sullenly, with a scowl on his face.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Characters who act sullenly often portray deep emotional struggles, like in Shakespeare's plays where they represent uncommunicated pain.
  • In modern novels, sullen characters often symbolize teenage angst, highlighting the conflicts of growing up.
  • Authors use sullen behavior to emphasize atmosphere, creating tension between characters or presenting internal conflict.

Psychology

  • Sullen behavior can indicate underlying issues such as depression or anxiety, showing that someone might need support.
  • It can also reflect a coping mechanism where people withdraw when overwhelmed by emotions.
  • Understanding sullen expressions can enhance emotional intelligence, helping peers connect better and provide support.

Pop Culture

  • The sullen teenager trope is common in films, representing rebellion and emotional complexity.
  • Songs sometimes feature sullen characters to express feelings of loneliness, emphasizing relatable struggles through music.
  • Television shows often explore sullen behaviors in characters to create dramatic tension and depth.

Origin of 'sullenly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'solene' meaning dark or gloomy.
  • It is related to the Old French word 'solein', which also signifies being unsocial or gloomy.
  • The word has been used since the 14th century to describe a dark or moody demeanor.

The adverb 'sullenly' is derived from the adjective 'sullen', which comes from the Middle English word 'solein' meaning 'solitary, gloomy'. The origins can be traced back to the Old French word 'solein' and the Latin word 'solitarius'. Over time, 'sullenly' has evolved to describe a moodily silent and ill-humored manner.

See also: sullenness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,460, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.