Wistful
Word of the Day
What is Wistful?
adjective
Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to reflect the emotional richness of remembering — the kind of beauty that exists in the ache of almost, once, and never again.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
His voice turned wistful as he spoke of childhood memories.
The melody had a wistful quality that lingered long after the song ended.
She gave him a wistful smile before boarding the train.
Word Origins
From obsolete wistly (intently) and wist (intent, desire)
Originally meant “intently watchful” and later took on emotional nuance of yearning.
First appearance in English: 17th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
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Noun:
There was a wistfulness in her eyes that words couldn’t explain.
-
Adjective:
A melancholy breeze drifted through the empty streets.
-
Adjective:
He felt nostalgic for a time he had never lived.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: melancólico
- French: mélancolique
- German: wehmütig
- Italian: nostalgico
- Portuguese: saudosista
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Nostalgic
“Nostalgic” focuses on fond memories; “wistful” includes a trace of sadness or loss.
Melancholy
“Melancholy” is deeper and sadder; “wistful” is lighter and more fleeting.
Yearning
“Yearning” is intense desire; “wistful” is quieter, more reflective longing.
Fun Facts
- The word “wistful” is related to the idea of watching or waiting, not just wanting.
- The emotional tone of “wistful” is often used in farewell scenes and final chapters.
Cultural Usage
- Many classic novels contain wistful characters yearning for what was or what could have been.
- Wistful cinematography often uses soft lighting, long pauses, and distant glances.
Common Mistakes
Often confused with “regretful” or “sad”; “wistful” is softer and more reflective than mournful.
Micro Story
She looked out the window with a wistful expression, thinking of summers long gone.