wistful

[ˈwɪstfʊl]

wistful Definition

• 1. having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing
• 2. suggestive or expressive of melancholy or yearning

Using wistful: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wistful" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She had a wistful expression on her face as she looked out the window.

• Example

  The old photograph made him feel wistful for his childhood.

• Example

  He spoke in a wistful tone about the past.

wistful Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wistful

• nostalgic
• pensive
• melancholic
• yearning
• longing

Antonyms for wistful

• cheerful
• happy
• joyful

Phrases with wistful

• wistful smile

  a smile that expresses a feeling of vague or regretful longing

  Example

  She gave him a wistful smile as he left.

• wistful thinking

  the act of indulging in wishful or fanciful thoughts and ideas, often with a sense of regret or longing

  Example

  His wistful thinking about the past prevented him from moving forward.

• wistful look

  a look that expresses a feeling of vague or regretful longing

  Example

  He gave her a wistful look before turning away.

Origins of wistful

from Middle English 'wist' meaning 'intelligent' or 'knowing', and 'ful' meaning 'full of'

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Summary: wistful in Brief

The term 'wistful' [ˈwɪstfʊl] refers to a feeling of vague or regretful longing, often expressed through facial expressions or tone of voice. It is synonymous with 'nostalgic' and 'pensive,' and can be used in phrases like 'wistful smile' or 'wistful thinking.' 'Wistful' is an adjective that suggests a sense of melancholy or yearning.