Moody

Moody describes a person or animal who is subject to unpredictable and rapid changes of mood, often characterized by periods of gloominess, irritability, or sullenness. These emotional shifts can be triggered by various internal or external factors, leading to unpredictable behavior. The term implies a certain sensitivity to the environment and a tendency towards introspection. It highlights a fluctuation in emotional state, making the individual appear unpredictable or difficult to understand. Being moody can be linked to underlying psychological conditions or be a temporary reaction to stress, fatigue, or hormonal changes.

Moody meaning with examples

• Sarah was notoriously moody; one moment she'd be laughing, the next she'd retreat into herself, quiet and withdrawn. Her unpredictable behavior made it hard for her friends to know how to approach her. They often felt like they were walking on eggshells, trying not to upset her. She admitted the changes were influenced by the weather and other small things.
• The puppy, normally playful, became moody after being left alone for several hours. He spent most of the afternoon moping in his bed, ignoring his toys and refusing treats. His owners worried that he might be ill until he perked up after a short walk. The drastic change in his mood baffled the family.
• During her teenage years, Emily was often described as moody, her emotions swinging wildly between happiness and despair. This made it difficult for her parents to communicate effectively. These emotional changes caused conflict at home, as her unpredictable temperament led to frequent arguments. She attributed the mood swings to school and social issues.
• The novel's protagonist was portrayed as a moody artist, his creative genius fueled by his volatile emotions. He would swing between periods of intense inspiration and frustrating creative blocks, mirroring his personal life. His fluctuating temperament added depth to his character, making him both compelling and frustrating to those around him.