Morosenesses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A state characterized by deep gloom or somberness; the quality of being sullen or sulky; an emotional condition marked by a lack of cheerfulness and an inclination toward sadness
2. The nature of expressing or embodying a gloomy disposition; a tendency to be withdrawn or irritable; an overall atmosphere reflecting a lack of happiness or joy
3. An attitude of unwelcome seriousness and sadness; a degree of persistently unhappiness or melancholy; a prevailing mood that discourages laughter or lightness

Etymology: "Morosenesses" is the plural of "moroseness," so it is simply the plural of a noun formed from the adjective "morose" with the suffix "-ness," which attaches to adjectives to name a quality or state. "Morose" comes from Latin "morosus," meaning "peevish" or "capricious," itself built from "mos" (genitive "moris"), meaning "custom," "manner," or "temper." Over time the sense narrowed from general ill-humour to the gloomy, withdrawn sulkiness the word carries today. The plural form is rare, since "moroseness" is normally used as an uncountable noun for the quality itself. It appears when writers want to refer to several distinct episodes or instances of sullen gloom, as in "the moroseness of her long winter evenings."

Synonyms: sullenness, gloominess

Antonyms: cheerfulness, brightness