Top 53 Slang For Melancholy – Meaning & Usage

Feeling a little down in the dumps? We’ve got you covered with the top slang for melancholy. Dive into our list to discover unique and relatable terms that perfectly capture that bittersweet feeling. Whether you’re feeling blue or just in need of some new vocabulary, this listicle is sure to pique your interest and add a touch of flair to your emotional lexicon.

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1. Blue

When someone is feeling blue, they are experiencing sadness or a low mood. This slang term is often used to describe a temporary state of melancholy.

For example, “I’ve been feeling really blue since my dog passed away.”
A person might say, “I don’t know why, but I’ve been feeling a bit blue lately.”
In a conversation about emotions, someone might ask, “Have you ever felt blue for no apparent reason?”

2. Down in the dumps

When someone is down in the dumps, they are feeling very sad or depressed. This slang term emphasizes a deep sense of melancholy.

For instance, “Ever since she lost her job, she’s been down in the dumps.”
A person might say, “I can’t seem to shake this feeling of being down in the dumps.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might share, “I’ve had periods where I’ve felt really down in the dumps, but therapy has helped me cope.”

3. Gloomy

Gloomy describes a state of melancholy where everything seems dark, sad, or dismal. It can refer to both one’s mood and the atmosphere or surroundings.

For example, “The rainy weather made the day feel gloomy.”
A person might say, “I can’t shake this gloomy feeling.”
In a conversation about a sad event, someone might comment, “The atmosphere was incredibly gloomy at the funeral.”

4. Sullen

Sullen describes a state of melancholy where someone is silent, uncommunicative, or shows signs of irritation or ill humor. It often implies a brooding or sulking demeanor.

For instance, “He sat in the corner, sullen and withdrawn.”
A person might say, “She gave me a sullen look and didn’t respond.”
In a discussion about someone’s behavior, someone might comment, “He’s been acting really sullen lately, not engaging with anyone.”

5. Mopey

When someone is mopey, they are feeling or appearing sad, listless, or apathetic. It suggests a lack of energy or motivation, often accompanied by a downcast demeanor.

For example, “Ever since the breakup, she’s been mopey and uninterested in socializing.”
A person might say, “I don’t know why, but I’ve been feeling really mopey lately.”
In a conversation about someone’s behavior, someone might comment, “He’s been acting mopey and disengaged for weeks.”

6. Doleful

Doleful refers to a deep sadness or mournfulness. It is often used to describe someone who is experiencing great sorrow or grief.

For example, “She had a doleful expression on her face after receiving the bad news.”
A person might say, “I felt doleful after the loss of my pet.”
In a poem or song, the lyrics might express, “In the doleful night, I weep for my lost love.”

7. Wistful

Wistful describes a feeling of nostalgic longing or yearning for something that cannot be attained or is lost. It often carries a sense of sadness or melancholy.

For instance, “She had a wistful look in her eyes as she gazed at the old photograph.”
A person might say, “I feel wistful when I think about the carefree days of my youth.”
In a song, the lyrics might express, “I’m feeling wistful for a love that’s gone.”

8. Morose

Morose refers to a gloomy or sullen disposition. It describes someone who is habitually or often in a state of sadness or melancholy.

For example, “He was always morose and rarely smiled.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling quite morose lately, with no particular reason.”
In a novel, the author might describe a character as, “His morose nature made it difficult for others to connect with him.”

9. Despondent

Despondent describes a feeling of extreme hopelessness or dejection. It is often used to describe someone who has lost all hope or is in a state of deep despair.

For instance, “She felt despondent after failing her exam.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling despondent about the state of the world.”
In a counseling session, a therapist might ask, “Have you been feeling despondent or hopeless lately?”

10. Melancholic

Melancholic describes a state of deep sadness or sorrow. It is often used to describe someone who is experiencing profound grief or melancholy.

For example, “He had a melancholic expression on his face as he reminisced about his lost love.”
A person might say, “I find solace in melancholic music when I’m feeling down.”
In a poem, the poet might write, “The melancholic rain matched the sorrow in my heart.”

11. Blue devils

This term refers to a state of deep sadness or depression. It can also be used to describe a person who is feeling down or experiencing a bout of melancholy.

For example, “I’ve been having a case of the blue devils lately, I can’t seem to shake off this feeling.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “Many people struggle with the blue devils, but it’s important to seek help.”
A person might describe a friend as “having the blue devils” if they notice a change in their behavior and mood.

12. Downtrodden

This term refers to feeling oppressed, defeated, or without hope. It can also describe someone who is treated unfairly or taken advantage of.

For instance, “After losing his job, he felt downtrodden and unsure about his future.”
In a conversation about social justice, someone might say, “We must fight for the rights of the downtrodden and marginalized.”
A person might describe a difficult situation as “leaving them feeling downtrodden and hopeless.”

13. Lonesome

Lonesome is a term used to describe a feeling of loneliness or isolation. It can also refer to a place or time that feels empty or devoid of company.

For example, “She spent the weekend alone and felt lonesome without her friends.”
In a discussion about travel, someone might say, “Exploring new cities can be exciting, but it can also leave you feeling lonesome.”
A person might describe their experience during a pandemic as “feeling incredibly lonesome due to social distancing measures.”

14. Disheartened

Disheartened refers to a feeling of discouragement, disappointment, or loss of hope. It can be used to describe a person who is feeling down or demoralized.

For instance, “After receiving multiple rejections, she felt disheartened and questioned her abilities.”
In a conversation about setbacks, someone might say, “It’s natural to feel disheartened when things don’t go as planned, but it’s important to keep going.”
A person might describe a difficult situation as “leaving them feeling disheartened and unsure about the future.”

15. Forlorn

Forlorn describes a feeling of being abandoned, desolate, or without hope. It can also describe a person or place that appears sad or neglected.

For example, “Walking through the empty streets, she couldn’t help but feel forlorn.”
In a discussion about lost love, someone might say, “After the breakup, he was left feeling forlorn and heartbroken.”
A person might describe a dilapidated building as “giving off a forlorn vibe,“giving off a forlorn vibe, as if it has been forgotten by time.”

16. Heavy-hearted

This term describes someone who is feeling deep sadness or depression. It refers to a heavy or burdened heart.

For example, “She walked around with a heavy-hearted expression all day.”
In a poem or song, one might write, “I’m heavy-hearted, feeling lost and alone.”
A friend might ask, “Are you okay? You seem heavy-hearted lately.”

17. Woeful

This word describes a state of extreme sadness or distress. It suggests a feeling of deep sorrow or misery.

For instance, “He had a woeful expression on his face after receiving the bad news.”
In a conversation about a tragic event, one might say, “The survivors have shared their woeful stories.”
A writer might describe a character as “woeful and desolate,“woeful and desolate, lost in their own despair.”

18. Melancholy

Melancholy refers to a profound state of sadness, often with a tinge of nostalgia or longing. It describes a mood or atmosphere that is gloomy or reflective.

For example, “The melancholy music played softly in the background.”
A poet might write, “In the depths of my melancholy, I find solace.”
A person might say, “I often find myself lost in melancholy thoughts.”

19. Sorrowful

This word describes a feeling of deep sorrow or grief. It suggests a state of sadness or mourning.

For instance, “She had a sorrowful look on her face as she read the heartbreaking letter.”
In a eulogy or tribute, one might say, “We gather here today to remember a sorrowful loss.”
A character in a novel might be described as “sorrowful and haunted by their past.”

20. Dejected

Dejected describes a state of feeling sad, disheartened, or discouraged. It suggests a loss of hope or enthusiasm.

For example, “He walked with a dejected posture, shoulders slumped and head down.”
In a conversation about a missed opportunity, one might say, “She felt dejected after not getting the job.”
A coach might encourage their team, saying, “Don’t be dejected by this loss. We’ll bounce back.”

21. Crestfallen

– After receiving a rejection letter, she felt crestfallen and wondered if she would ever achieve her dreams.

He came home to find his house in ruins, leaving him crestfallen and unsure of how to move forward.
The team’s loss in the championship game left them crestfallen and questioning their abilities.

22. Heartbroken

– She was heartbroken when her long-term relationship ended abruptly.

The death of her beloved pet left her heartbroken and unable to find joy in anything.
He couldn’t bear the thought of his parents’ divorce and was left heartbroken and confused.

23. Somber

– The funeral was a somber occasion, with everyone dressed in black and tears flowing freely.

The somber tone of the movie reflected the tragic events that unfolded.
The rainy weather matched her somber mood as she reflected on her recent loss.

24. Dismal

– The job market was dismal, with few opportunities for recent graduates.

The team’s performance in the game was dismal, resulting in a crushing defeat.
She looked out the window at the gray sky and felt a sense of dismal emptiness.

25. Mournful

– The mournful song brought tears to her eyes as she thought about her lost loved one.

The mournful wail of the wind echoed through the empty streets.
He sat alone in the park, wearing a mournful expression as he remembered happier times.

26. Downhearted

This term describes a feeling of sadness or discouragement. It is often used to express a temporary state of low spirits or a lack of hope.

For example, “After receiving the bad news, she felt downhearted and didn’t want to talk to anyone.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling downhearted lately, but I’m trying to stay positive.”
In a song lyric, you might hear, “I’m feeling so downhearted, can’t shake this feeling of despair.”

27. Low-spirited

This term describes a feeling of sadness or dejection. It is often used to describe a temporary state of low mood or a lack of enthusiasm.

For instance, “She appeared low-spirited after the breakup.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling low-spirited lately, but I’m trying to stay optimistic.”
In a conversation about a disappointing event, someone might comment, “I can’t help but feel low-spirited about the outcome.”

28. Tearful

This term describes a feeling of being inclined to cry or experiencing a strong urge to shed tears. It is often used to express a state of extreme sadness or emotional vulnerability.

For example, “She couldn’t hold back the tears and became tearful.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling tearful lately, and I’m not sure why.”
In a discussion about a touching movie, someone might comment, “The ending was so emotional, I was left feeling tearful.”

29. Blue-devils

This term describes feelings of sadness or depression. It is often used to express a state of deep melancholy or emotional distress.

For instance, “She couldn’t shake off the blue-devils that haunted her.”
A person might say, “I’ve been dealing with the blue-devils lately, and it’s been tough.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might mention, “The blue-devils can be overwhelming, but seeking help is important.”

30. Heart-sick

This term describes a feeling of deep sadness or trouble. It is often used to express a state of emotional pain or distress, particularly related to matters of the heart.

For example, “She felt heart-sick after the loss of a loved one.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling heart-sick lately, and it’s been hard to find joy.”
In a discussion about unrequited love, someone might comment, “The feeling of being heart-sick is unbearable.”

31. Lugubrious

Lugubrious is an adjective that describes someone or something that is sad, mournful, or gloomy. It is often used to describe a person’s appearance, behavior, or tone of voice.

For example, “She had a lugubrious expression on her face after hearing the bad news.”
In literature, a character might be described as “a lugubrious figure, always dressed in black.”
A person might say, “I can’t stand listening to lugubrious music when I’m already feeling down.”

32. Depressed

Depressed is an adjective that describes a state of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and low mood. It is often used to describe a person’s emotional state or mental health.

For instance, “She has been feeling depressed for weeks and is seeking help.”
A person might say, “I can’t shake off this feeling of being depressed.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might mention, “Depressed individuals often experience a lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy.”

33. Eeyore

Eeyore is a slang term derived from the character of the same name in the Winnie the Pooh series. It is used to describe someone who is constantly gloomy, pessimistic, or negative.

For example, “Stop being such an Eeyore and try to see the bright side.”
A person might say, “I feel like Eeyore today, everything is going wrong.”
In a discussion about personality types, someone might say, “I tend to be more of an Eeyore, always expecting the worst.”

34. Glum

Glum is an adjective that describes someone who is feeling or looking sad, dejected, or downcast. It is often used to describe a person’s appearance or mood.

For instance, “He had a glum expression on his face after receiving the bad news.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling glum today, I don’t know why.”
In a conversation about emotions, someone might mention, “When I’m feeling glum, I like to listen to uplifting music to cheer myself up.”

35. Moody

Moody is an adjective that describes someone who has unpredictable and fluctuating moods. It is often used to describe a person’s temperament or emotional state.

For example, “She’s been acting moody lately, you never know how she’ll react.”
A person might say, “I can’t help being moody, it’s just how I am.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might mention, “Dealing with a moody partner can be challenging, but communication is key.”

36. Pensive

Refers to a state of deep or serious thought. It often conveys a sense of sadness or melancholy.

For example, “She sat by the window, pensive and lost in her own thoughts.”
A person might say, “I often feel pensive when I listen to sad music.”
In a poem, the poet may describe a character as “pensive and introspective.”

37. Weepy

Describes someone who is prone to crying or feeling emotional. It suggests a state of sadness or melancholy.

For instance, “After the breakup, she became weepy and would often cry herself to sleep.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling weepy today. Everything seems to make me cry.”
In a movie review, the reviewer might describe a particularly emotional scene as “a real tear-jerker that will leave you weepy.”

38. Unhappy

Simply means not happy. It is a general term for a negative emotional state, which can include feelings of melancholy.

For example, “She looked visibly unhappy, with tears in her eyes.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling unhappy lately, and I’m not sure why.”
In a book review, the reviewer might describe the protagonist as “an unhappy character who struggles to find joy in life.”

39. Unsettled

Refers to a state of unease or discomfort. It suggests a feeling of restlessness or dissatisfaction, often accompanied by a sense of melancholy.

For instance, “After the accident, she felt unsettled and couldn’t sleep.”
A person might say, “I always feel unsettled when I’m in unfamiliar surroundings.”
In a journal entry, the writer might describe a period of their life as “a time of great uncertainty and unsettled emotions.”

40. Brooding

Describes someone who is deep in thought, often with a sense of sadness or melancholy. It suggests a contemplative and reflective state of mind.

For example, “He sat in the corner, brooding over his failed relationship.”
A person might say, “I tend to be brooding when I’m feeling down.”
In a character analysis, the author might describe a brooding protagonist as “a complex and introspective individual who is haunted by their past.”

41. Disconsolate

This word describes a state of deep sadness or sorrow. It implies a feeling of being completely hopeless or without consolation.

For example, “After her dog passed away, she was disconsolate for weeks.”
In a novel, a character might be described as “wandering the empty streets in a disconsolate daze.”
A friend might say, “I could see the disconsolate look on her face after she received the bad news.”

42. Melancholia

Melancholia refers to a state of profound sadness or depression. It is often used to describe a lingering feeling of sadness that is difficult to shake off.

For instance, “He fell into a deep melancholia after the loss of his job.”
In a poem, the author might write, “The melancholia of lost love consumed her soul.”
A therapist might use the term to describe a patient’s persistent feelings of melancholia.

43. Lamenting

Lamenting refers to the act of expressing deep grief or sorrow. It involves vocalizing or expressing sadness or regret over a particular situation or loss.

For example, “She was lamenting the loss of her childhood home.”
In a song, the lyrics might include lines like, “I’m lamenting the end of our love.”
A friend might say, “I heard her lamenting about her failed job interview.”

44. Sombre

Sombre describes a mood or atmosphere that is dark, gloomy, or depressing. It often conveys a sense of seriousness or sadness.

For instance, “The sombre room was filled with mourners.”
In a painting, the artist might use sombre colors to evoke a sense of melancholy.
A writer might describe a sombre landscape as “a desolate and haunting place.”

45. Tear-jerking

Tear-jerking refers to something that evokes strong emotions, particularly sadness or sorrow. It describes a situation, story, or event that is highly emotional and may bring tears to one’s eyes.

For example, “The movie’s ending was so tear-jerking that many audience members were openly weeping.”
A book might be described as “a collection of tear-jerking stories that tug at the heartstrings.”
A friend might say, “I watched a tear-jerking documentary last night that left me feeling emotionally drained.”

46. Tear-stained

This term refers to something that is marked or stained with tears. It can be used to describe a person or their emotions, indicating that they have been crying or are feeling sad.

For example, “She looked at the tear-stained letter and couldn’t help but feel a wave of sadness.”
In a discussion about a sad movie, someone might say, “I watched that tear-stained scene and couldn’t hold back my emotions.”
A person describing their own emotions might say, “I woke up feeling tear-stained and couldn’t shake off the sadness.”

47. Heartrending

This term describes something that is extremely sad or emotionally distressing. It conveys a sense of deep sorrow or grief that can tug at the heartstrings.

For instance, “The heartrending story of the orphaned child moved everyone to tears.”
In a review of a sad song, someone might say, “The lyrics are so heartrending that they resonate with anyone who has experienced loss.”
A person discussing a tragic event might say, “The news of the earthquake was heartrending, and my thoughts are with the affected.”

48. Long-faced

This term describes someone who has a sad or gloomy expression on their face. It can be used to indicate that a person looks unhappy or downcast.

For example, “He walked into the room with a long-faced expression, clearly carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.”
In a conversation about someone’s mood, a friend might say, “She has been long-faced lately, I wonder what’s bothering her.”
A person describing their own feelings might say, “I woke up feeling long-faced and couldn’t shake off the melancholy.”

49. Tear-jerker

This term refers to something, such as a movie, book, or story, that is designed to evoke strong emotions, particularly sadness or sympathy. It is often used to describe something that brings tears to the eyes.

For instance, “That movie is a real tear-jerker; I cried throughout the entire film.”
In a discussion about a sad book, someone might say, “The ending of that novel was such a tear-jerker, it left me feeling emotional for days.”
A person recommending a touching story might say, “If you’re in the mood for a tear-jerker, I highly recommend this book.”

50. Sorrowing

This term describes the state of feeling sadness or sorrow. It conveys a sense of deep emotional pain or grief.

For example, “She sat alone in her room, sorrowing over the loss of her loved one.”
In a conversation about a difficult breakup, a friend might say, “I can see you’re sorrowing, and I’m here for you.”
A person describing their own emotions might say, “I’ve been sorrowing lately, and it’s been hard to find joy in anything.”

51. Desolate

Desolate refers to a feeling of emptiness and bleakness, often accompanied by a sense of loneliness or despair.

For example, “After the breakup, he felt desolate and alone.”
In a poem about loss, the writer might describe a desolate landscape.
A person going through a difficult time might say, “I feel so desolate right now.”

52. Melancholiness

Melancholiness refers to a state of being sad and gloomy, often characterized by a deep sorrow or a sense of heaviness.

For instance, “She couldn’t shake off the melancholiness that had settled in her heart.”
In a diary entry, someone might write, “Today, I woke up with a heavy sense of melancholiness.”
A character in a novel might be described as having a perpetually melancholiness demeanor.

53. Blues

Blues is a slang term used to describe a state of feeling down or depressed. It is often associated with a sense of sadness or a low mood.

For example, “He’s been in the blues ever since he lost his job.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling the blues today, I just can’t shake off this sadness.”
In a song, the lyrics might express, “I’ve got those Monday morning blues.”