Meaning & Definition of word "Dour"
to
Dour
/dʊə/
adjective:
- 1. Stern, unfriendly, or gloomy in demeanor or appearance.
- Example: His dour expression made it clear that he was not in the mood for jokes.
- 2. Relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy.
- Example: The dour landscape was shrouded in fog and desolation.
- 3. Marked by a stern or forbidding appearance.
- Example: The coach had a dour look as he assessed the team's performance.
Etymology
Middle English, from Middle Dutch 'dūre' meaning 'hard' or 'harsh'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
dour demeanor:
A serious or stern appearance.
dour expression:
A facial expression showing disapproval or unhappiness.
dour outlook:
A pessimistic or gloomy perspective on life.
Related Words
morose:
Having a sullen or gloomy disposition.
sullen:
Bad-tempered and sulky.
Slang Meanings of dour
Meaning: Grumpy or unfriendly.
Example Sentence: He's been acting really dour since he lost that game.
Meaning: Unenthusiastic or negative.
Example Sentence: Don't be so dour about the party; it could be fun!