sadness
/ˈsædnəs/
NOUN
1. The state or emotion of being sad
A feeling of unhappiness, sorrow, or emotional distress, often arising from loss, disappointment, or an unpleasant experience.
1.1. General feeling of unhappiness
A general emotional state of feeling unhappy, low-spirited, or lacking joy, without necessarily having a specific cause.
Synonyms
- unhappiness
- sorrow
- gloom
- melancholy
- dejection
- despondency
- glumness
- cheerlessness
- mournfulness
- woe
Antonyms
Examples
- The rainy weather seemed to intensify the pervasive sadness in the air.
- In the quiet moments before dawn, a profound sense of sadness settled over the city.
- His eyes betrayed the hidden sadness that lingered beneath his cheerful facade.
Related Words
- gloominess
- downheartedness
- despondence
- dispiritedness
- moroseness
- joylessness
1.2. Deep emotional suffering
A particularly intense form of sadness involving profound emotional pain, anguish, or distress.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- As she read the farewell letter, a wave of overwhelming sadness washed over her.
Related Words
- torment
- tribulation
- wretchedness
- hopelessness
- heartsickness
- desolation
1.3. Sadness caused by loss or bereavement
A feeling of sorrow associated with the death of someone, separation, or the loss of something deeply valued.
Synonyms
- grief
- mourning
- sorrow
- heartbreak
- heartache
- bereavement
Related Words
- lamentation
- desolation
- woe
- sorrowfulness
1.4. Discouragement and loss of hope
A state of sadness accompanied by diminished hope, confidence, or motivation, often resulting in feelings of helplessness or defeat.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- hopefulness
- optimism
- cheerfulness
- exuberance
Related Words
- despond
- disconsolateness
- forlornness
- downheartedness
NOUN
2. An event in one's life that causes sadness
An unfortunate, painful, or disappointing event or circumstance that produces feelings of sorrow or unhappiness.
2.1. A sorrowful or distressing event
An occurrence or situation that brings sadness, emotional pain, or disappointment to someone.
Synonyms
- misfortune
- tragedy
- sorrow
- distress
- heartbreak
- tribulation
- woe
Antonyms
Examples
- The abandoned playground echoed with a haunting silence, mirroring the prevailing sadness.
Related Words
- calamity
- hardship
- setback
- disappointment
- affliction