Sullen
Morose, sulky, and gloomily silent; showing a brooding or sullied mood; can also describe dark, overcast weather or a dull, heavy atmosphere.
adjectiveSullen
Morose, sulky, and gloomily silent; showing a brooding or sullied mood; can also describe dark, overcast weather or a dull, heavy atmosphere.
adjectiveImagine This
Picture a rainy afternoon in a high school classroom. A student sits with shoulders hunched, eyes cast down, lips pressed into a thin line. The room feels heavy, and even the clock ticks slowly as a sullen silence settles over everyone.
Sounds Like
SULL-ən
Looks Like
Looks like: sulk + en (similar to sulky; conveys a mood of gloom or withdrawal)
Remember This
Sullen is often used to describe mood or weather. It pairs with phrases like 'a sullen mood' or 'a sullen sky.' It does not imply cheerful hostility; it indicates gloomy, withdrawn, or morose silences or expressions.
Other Forms
Note
Common mistake: confusing sullen with solemn or somber. Sullen emphasizes moodiness and withdrawal, not seriousness. Adverb: sullenly; Noun form: sullenness.