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maussade

gloomy, sullen

adjective moh-SAD Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Conditions

Origin: of uncertain origin, possibly from Low German or Dutch

Also means

dull, bleak (weather)

Usage Note

Maussade describes both a person's sulky, morose disposition and dull, overcast weather: un temps maussade is a grey, depressing day. The noun maussaderie (sullenness) exists but is rare. It sits between morose (deep gloom) and boudeur (pouting) in register.

Examples

"Il est arrivé avec une mine maussade ce matin-là."

Natural Translation

He arrived with a gloomy expression that morning.

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