english word · 2026-06-11
melancholy
noun
Meaning
A deep, pensive, and long-lasting sadness that is often accompanied by a sense of calm or reflection. It represents a state of being lost in thought rather than just being unhappy.
Etymology
From Middle English and Old French, originating from the Greek 'melankholia', meaning 'black bile'.
Examples
"A sense of gentle melancholy washed over her as she watched the autumn leaves fall in the empty park."
"There was a certain quiet melancholy in the melody of the old cello piece."
A new word every day
Get a beautiful english word in your inbox every morning. Free.
Subscribe →