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wistful

[ˈwɪstfʊl]

wistful Definition

  • 1having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing
  • 2suggestive 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

Phrases with wistful

  • a smile that expresses a feeling of vague or regretful longing

    Example

    She gave him a wistful smile as he left.

  • 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.

  • 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.