Wistfulness — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ˈwist-fəl/ wist·ful

Meaning & Definition of Wistfulness

Wistfulness (adjective)

  1. full of yearning or desire tinged with melancholy; also, inspiring such yearning
  2. musingly sad, pensive

Word Forms of Wistfulness

Derived words: wistfully (adverb), wistfulness (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Wistfulness

blend of wishful and obsolete English wistly intently

First known use: 1714

Frequently Asked Questions about Wistfulness

What does "Wistfulness" mean?

"Wistfulness" means full of yearning or desire tinged with melancholy; also, inspiring such yearning. As an adjective, it is defined as: full of yearning or desire tinged with melancholy; also, inspiring such yearning. It has 2 distinct senses.

Is "Wistfulness" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Wistfulness" is an adjective.

How do you pronounce "Wistfulness"?

"Wistfulness" is pronounced /ˈwist-fəl/ and divided into syllables as wist·ful.

What is the origin of the word "Wistfulness"?

"Wistfulness" comes from blend of wishful and obsolete English wistly intently. First known use: 1714.

What words are derived from "Wistfulness"?

Words derived from "Wistfulness" include wistfully (adverb) and wistfulness (noun).