Gloom
/ɡluːm/
Meaning & Definition
noun
a state of partial or total darkness; a shadowy or dim light.
The room was filled with gloom after the lights were turned off.
a feeling of sadness or despair.
He was lost in a gloom that he couldn't shake off.
a mood or atmosphere of melancholy or despondency.
There was a gloom hanging over the town after the tragic event.
verb
to make gloomy or to cast a shadow.
The heavy clouds gloomed the sky, threatening rain.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old Norse 'glomr', meaning 'twilight, gloom'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
gloom and doom
A pessimistic outlook on future events or situations.
gloomy day
A day characterized by overcast sky and a lack of sunlight.
Related Words
gloomy
Having a somber or melancholic atmosphere.
gloominess
The quality of being gloomy or dark.
Slang Meanings
In a bad mood or feeling down.
He's been in a gloom lately, not wanting to hang out.
A sense of impending trouble or bad news.
There's a gloom around the office since the layoffs were announced.