Sullen

Characterized by ill humor; morose; sulky. This often involves a quiet resentment or resentment toward others, often without any clear justification for the bad mood. It implies a withdrawn and resentful state of mind, sometimes expressed through a gloomy silence or a refusal to engage. A sullen person typically displays a persistent negativity and a lack of enthusiasm.

Sullen meaning with examples

• After losing the game, the team retreated to the locker room in a sullen silence, their heads hung low. The coach's words of encouragement did little to dispel their somber mood, and the atmosphere was thick with disappointment and unspoken frustration.
• Mary was sullen for days after her friend canceled their plans. She answered with clipped words and refused to make eye contact, making it clear she was unhappy. Her parents finally gave up trying to cheer her up.
• The weather contributed to the dreary atmosphere; the sky was overcast and the air heavy, mirroring the sullen disposition of the villagers. The gloomy conditions amplified their feelings of isolation.
• The child sat sullenly in the corner, refusing to eat his vegetables, arms crossed. His face was a picture of pure displeasure. His parents tried to coax him, but he would not budge, lost in his private resentment.