Brooding
Verb
Definition: Engaged in or showing deep thought about something that makes one sad, angry, or worried.
Synonyms: Contemplating, Pondering, Meditating
Antonyms: Carefree, Lighthearted, Cheerful
- She was brooding over her failed relationship for weeks.
- The detective sat in a brooding silence, trying to solve the complex case.
- Imagine someone sitting alone in a dimly lit room, lost in deep thought, with a cloud of sadness hovering over them.
Adjective
Definition: (of a place or atmosphere) Giving an impression of sadness, seriousness, or threat.
Synonyms: Gloomy, Somber, Melancholic
Antonyms: Cheerful, Bright, Lighthearted
- The brooding sky signaled an approaching storm.
- The abandoned house had a brooding aura that sent chills down his spine.
- Imagine an overcast, dark sky casting a somber shadow over the surroundings, creating a brooding atmosphere.
Etymology:
Middle English 'broden', from Old English 'brōdian', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'broeden' and German 'brüten'.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Old English times, retaining its main aspects of deep thought and a somber atmosphere.
Related Idioms:
"Brooding like a hen on eggs"
Explanation:An idiom referring to someone excessively worrying or obsessing over a specific issue or situation.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'brooding' with 'brooding' (noun)
Explanation:'Brooding' can be both a verb and an adjective, but it should not be confused with 'brooding' as a noun, which refers to the process of a bird incubating eggs.