melancholic

[ mel-uhn-kol-ik ]

adjective

1. disposed to or affected with melancholy; gloomy.
2. of, relating to, or affected with melancholia.

Other Words From

• melan·choli·cal·ly adverb
• unmel·an·cholic adjective
• unmel·an·choli·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of melancholic¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English melancolik, from Latin melancholicus, from Greek melancholikós; melancholy, -ic

Example Sentences

Instead, “Stickerbush Symphony,” with its strangely melancholic New Age groove, accompanies a level in which the player navigates a fantastically cruel maze of spiky vines.

From New York Times

The singer's last new record, the melancholic 50 Words for Snow, was released in 2011.

From BBC

But despite the audience’s love and her successful comeback, Rekha, once known for her fierce and candid persona, now presented a significantly toned-down, melancholic, and philosophical approach.

From BBC

Despite being in a committed relationship for several years, Waterhouse found inspiration for the melancholic breakup song “Everybody Breaks Up Anyway” in an overheard conversation at a party.

From Los Angeles Times

But within its measured, melancholic tempo, it boasts its fair share of bracing humor.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• gloomy
• lugubrious
• melancholy
• wistful