adjective

sullen

/ˈsʌlən/ · say it: SUL·un

silently bad-tempered

In Emotions & Moods

In more detail

1. (adjective) bad-tempered and unwilling to talk or be friendly

2. (adjective) dark and gloomy in appearance

Examples

1. He gave a sullen response and refused to discuss the problem.
2. The sky looked sullen and threatening before the storm.

How to use sullen

Sullen describes a bad-tempered, unfriendly demeanor often accompanied by silence or a refusal to engage. It can also describe something dark and threatening in appearance, particularly weather or landscapes. The word carries a sense of resentment or hostility rather than mere sadness.

Common phrases

sullen mood
sullen expression
sullen silence
sullen face
sullen teenager
sullen weather

Synonyms

morose · grumpy · taciturn · withdrawn · gloomy

Opposites

cheerful · friendly · bright

Word family

sullenly (adverb) · sullenness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse sullen with simply 'sad' or 'quiet', but sullen implies an actively unhappy and uncooperative attitude, not just a neutral state.

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