Wan

/wɒn/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

pale or weak in color; lacking brightness.

Her wan face suggested that she had been ill for some time.

showing or suggesting exhaustion, weariness, or lack of energy.

After the long hike, he appeared wan and needed to rest.

lacking vitality or intensity; feeble.

The wan light of the early dawn barely illuminated the room.

Middle English 'wan,' from Old English 'wanian' meaning 'to diminish.'

wan smile

a weak or feeble smile

wan hope

a faint or improbable hope

pallor

unhealthy pale appearance

listless

lacking energy or enthusiasm

defeated or beaten down

After losing the game, he felt totally wan.

not lively or energetic

The party was altogether too wan for my taste.