Somber

/ˈsɑmbər/ adjective

Definition

Dark and gloomy in color or mood; serious and sad rather than cheerful.

Etymology

From French 'sombre,' which came from Latin 'subumbrare,' meaning 'to shade' or 'to shadow.' The word literally describes something in shadow or darkness.

Kelly Says

Somber literally means 'shadowed'—and that's brilliant because sadness and seriousness do feel like they dim the light. The word itself sounds dark and heavy, with those deep vowel sounds, which is why it's perfect for describing a funeral or a rainy day.

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