Somber

/ˈsɒm.bər/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy.

The sky was somber, filled with dark clouds, as the storm approached.

having a serious, grave, or gloomy mood.

The meeting had a somber atmosphere as they discussed the recent tragedies.

lacking brightness or color; drab.

He wore a somber suit to the funeral.

expressing or reflecting a mood of sadness or seriousness.

Her somber expression revealed her concern for the future.

From Middle French 'sombre' meaning dark, shade.

somber mood

A mood characterized by seriousness or sadness.

somber tone

A tone that is serious, reflective, or sad.

sombre

Alternative spelling of somber, used primarily in British English.

sombreness

The quality of being somber; seriousness or gloominess.

In a bad mood.

He's really somber today, better not bother him.

Feeling sad or down.

She’s been acting somber since the breakup.