Brooded

Brooded is the past tense of 'brood,' which refers to the act of contemplating or worrying about something persistently and often morosely. It may describe a state of deep thought or preoccupation, sometimes linked with anxiety or dark moods. To brood can also imply lingering over memories or feelings, affecting one's emotional state. This term is often associated with introspection or the tendency to dwell on one's troubles.

Brooded meaning with examples

• After receiving the disappointing news about her job application, Clara brooded for hours in her room, reflecting on her past efforts. The silence around her was filled with thoughts about missed opportunities and what she could have done differently, deeply impacting her mood for the next few days. It became evident that this prolonged contemplation was more about her fears than the actual rejection itself.
• During the long winter nights, Mark often brooded over old photographs of his childhood. Each image seemed to pull him deeper into a nostalgia that was both comforting and painful. He would spend hours lost in thoughts of joy and sorrow, wondering how life had transformed him since those carefree days, showing how memories can have a powerful hold on our emotional landscape.
• As tensions rose in the office, Lisa found herself brooding over her colleagues' relationships and the underlying rivalries. Her mind danced around the transactions and conversations, leading her to question the dynamics she once took for granted. That moment of introspection allowed her to understand and navigate the intricate web of interactions that influenced their daily work life.
• In the quiet of the evening, Jim often brooded by the fireplace, allowing his mind to wander into the past. Each flickering flame reminded him of decisions he regretted, and the faces he missed. Although he cherished the moments he reminisced about, he felt a heavy weight in his heart, realizing that brooding could be both a refuge and a trap, blurring the line between memory and longing.