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Meaning of wistful
Having a feeling of melancholy or nostalgia, often with a sense of longing.
Etymology of wistful
The word "wistful" originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Old English word "wist" meaning "it is as if" and the suffix "-ful" which forms an adjective, with the meaning of "having a certain quality"
Historically, the word was used to describe a sense of melancholy or longing, often with a sense of nostalgia or regret
Synonyms
melancholic
nostalgic
sentimental
yearning
longing
pensive
reflective
contemplative
moody
brooding
dreamy
introspective
mournful
regretful
sorrowful
tender
bittersweet
poetic
romantic
emotional
passionate
intense
fervent
ardent
eager
anxious
hopeful
despairing
despondent
disheartened
dejected
depressed
gloomy
somber
serious
thoughtful
wretched
pitiful
plaintive
sad
unhappy
forlorn
isolated
lonely
desolate
abandoned
forsaken
neglected
ignored
dismissed
rejected
spurned
jilted
disappointed
disillusioned
disenchanted
Definitions
- Having a feeling of melancholy or nostalgia, typically with a sense of longing or regret for something lost or unattainable
- Expressing a sense of melancholy or nostalgia, often in a gentle or subtle way
Usage Examples
- The old, abandoned house stood as a wistful reminder of happier times
- She looked at him with wistful eyes, remembering the way things used to be
- The smell of rain brought back wistful memories of childhood
Antonyms
cheerful
happy
joyful
ecstatic
elated
euphoric
thrilled
delighted
pleased
satisfied
content
complacent
optimistic
hopeful
enthusiastic
excited
energetic
lively
vibrant
animated
carefree
lighthearted
frivolous
superficial
shallow
indifferent
apathetic
unconcerned
unemotional
insensitive
callous
cruel
harsh
brutal
savage
heartless
ruthless