Dreary-eyed
Describing a person whose eyes appear dull, listless, or lacking in vitality, often indicating a state of sadness, weariness, boredom, or disillusionment. This appearance results from a lack of energy or enthusiasm and can stem from various factors such as prolonged sleeplessness, emotional distress, or a monotonous lifestyle. The term frequently suggests a loss of interest in the surrounding environment, resulting in a glazed or unfocused gaze. 'Dreary-eyed' portrays a visual representation of inner emotional states and a diminished zest for life. The eyes, often considered the windows to the soul, communicate a sense of despondency or ennui to the observer, implying a subdued emotional tone. This description implies not only a state of mind but also a physical manifestation of it.
Dreary-eyed meaning with examples
- Exhausted after weeks of travel and facing another lengthy commute, the weary traveler appeared dreary-eyed as he boarded the train. The endless journey left him with little energy, and his gaze reflected a sense of monotony and fatigue that made his eyes seem lifeless, void of excitement.
- She was always the last one to be picked and with many sad days she came to the playground, dreary-eyed, after the daily taunts. Her experiences left her despondent and her eyes reflected a deep-seated sadness, unable to connect, like a shell of the joy she once felt.
- After enduring years of financial hardship, the shop owner's once vibrant spirit had faded. He sat behind the counter, dreary-eyed, his gaze distant, a stark contrast to the passionate entrepreneur he once was, his loss of heart became clearly apparent.
- Returning from the battlefield, the soldier was a changed man. The horrors he witnessed made him appear dreary-eyed. The trauma that came with him showed and his gaze held a profound sadness and a distant echo of all the lives he was forced to watch wither away.
- During the long winter months, the lack of sunlight affected her mood, leaving her dreary-eyed and struggling to find the motivation to pursue her hobbies. The darkness and gloom of the long season took the color and life from her.
