Definition of melancholicnext
as in sad
feeling unhappiness she becomes quite melancholic when she reflects on all the lost opportunities of her life

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of melancholic Over his decade-long career, the Puerto Rican superstar has been all of those things, boldly and inventively reshaping Latin music with his signature melancholic flow and nimble lyrics. New York Times, 28 Apr. 2026 Mesa de Frades The traditional, melancholic music drifts through the streets of Alfama each evening, and gives guests a deeper understanding of the heart of the city. Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Apr. 2026 Sonically, the track (produced and composed by Gavilan) is a melancholic grassroots folk song accompanied by weeping guitar riffs and a heart-pounding cajón. Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 27 Mar. 2026 Likewise, prevailing concepts of Hamlet at the time cast the prince as a wan and melancholic, leading critics to bristle at Bernhardt’s energy. Betsy Golden Kellem, JSTOR Daily, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for melancholic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for melancholic
Adjective
  • Este is sad — Este is depressed-y.
    Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • How sad or scary is ‘Toy Story 5’?
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • Barry follows a depressed ex‑Marine hitman (Hader, in the title role) who turns to acting for salvation while tangling with the Chechen mob in Los Angeles.
    Stephen Rodrick, Rolling Stone, 16 June 2026
  • Epstein seemed to feel increasingly depressed about the conditions of his incarceration.
    New York Times, New York Times, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • The European Commission froze billions of euros in funds for Hungary in response to democratic backsliding led by Orbán, and concern lingers about the damage that can be done when one unhappy government insists on wielding its veto.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 June 2026
  • Social media is making children unhappy and is designed to be addictive, Starmer said at a press conference.
    Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 15 June 2026
Adjective
  • The play can create some real melancholy.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 18 June 2026
  • Americans are in a melancholy mood as the nation prepares to mark its 250th anniversary.
    Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • Sam’s maternal grandparents are especially heartbroken.
    Jeremy Diamond, CNN Money, 13 June 2026
  • Aaron Brown, her heartbroken father, spoke at the vigil.
    Julie Sharp, CBS News, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • What started off as a miserable day to be outside due to temperatures well over 80, as well as a brief rainfall, all those issues were forgotten after once the skies cleared up.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 13 June 2026
  • Despite concerns that the conflict in the Middle East could further squeeze a flagging labor market, hiring has picked up in recent months following a miserable 2025 that saw fewer than 200,000 job gains.
    ABC News, ABC News, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • The drama can stir up nostalgia and mournful emotions, and feels personal to many.
    Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 3 June 2026
  • On the soundtrack, mournful wailing music presents her as a tragic character.
    Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • Brunson is at his best when everything is at its worst, blessed with belief that seems at times desperate and determination that can feel almost manic.
    Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
  • All of the club’s worst seasons prior to 1965 took place from 1932 and before.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 14 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Melancholic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/melancholic. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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