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Wistful Definition & Meaning

wistful
adjective
  1. showing pensive sadness; "the sensitive and wistful response of a poet to the gentler phases of beauty"

Usage tips for "wistful"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "wistful" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for wistful to find words that pair well.

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Frequently asked questions

What does wistful mean?
showing pensive sadness; "the sensitive and wistful response of a poet to the gentler phases of beauty"
What part of speech is wistful?
Wistful is an adjective.

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