Somber
Adjective
Definition: Dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy.
Synonyms: Dark, Dreary, Melancholy
Antonyms: Bright, Cheerful, Joyful
Examples:
- The somber clouds in the sky foreshadowed the impending storm.
- The funeral had a somber atmosphere, filled with grieving family members.
Mnemonics:
- Think of somber clothing worn during mourning.
- Remember that somber sounds similar to the word "sombre," which means the same thing in British English.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle French 'sombrer', from Old French 'sombrer' or 'sombreir', ultimately derived from Late Latin 'subumbrare' meaning "to shade" or "to cast a shadow".
Historical Usage:The word has been used since the 18th century to describe a dark or gloomy atmosphere or tone.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Somber occasion"
Explanation:Referring to an event or situation that is solemn, serious, or mournful.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "somber" with "somberer".
Explanation:"Somberer" is not a word, the comparative form of "somber" is "more somber".