Pall

A pall signifies a feeling of gloom, depression, or dread that casts a shadow over a situation or atmosphere. It can also refer to something that covers or conceals, like a funeral pall draped over a coffin. This sense of being shrouded often evokes feelings of sadness or a loss of vibrancy. The word conveys a sense of heaviness, stagnation, and a general decline in spirits, whether physical or emotional.

Pall meaning with examples

• The news of the company's bankruptcy cast a pall over the employees, their hopes for the future quickly fading. The atmosphere became heavy with worry and uncertainty as they contemplated the potential loss of their jobs and livelihoods. A palpable sense of anxiety and despair settled upon the office, a constant reminder of the impending crisis.
• A thick, gray pall of smoke hung over the city following the industrial accident, choking the air and limiting visibility. The unpleasant smell, along with the knowledge of potential health hazards, caused residents to shutter their windows and stay indoors. The heavy, suffocating air added to the already tense situation.
• The death of the beloved leader brought a pall of sadness over the entire nation. Celebrations were cancelled and the streets were quieter than normal, with people mourning his loss. The weight of the grief was seen as a heavy burden with his sudden demise, as he will always be remember by his people.
• As the war dragged on, a pall of disillusionment began to settle over the soldiers. The initial enthusiasm for battle and patriotism waned, replaced by a sense of futility. They began to question the purpose of their sacrifices and the possibility of ever reaching a satisfactory outcome to the conflict. The experience, overall, proved to have adverse psychological effects.