moody

adjective

ˈmü-dē 

moodier; moodiest

1

: subject to depression : gloomy

2

: subject to moods : temperamental

3

: expressive of a mood

moodily

ˈmü-də-lē 

adverb

moodiness

ˈmü-dē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• temperamental

Examples of moody in a Sentence

I don't know why I get so moody sometimes.

She's a moody woman—she can be happy one minute and angry the next.

The room's moody lighting suggested mystery and romance.

Recent Examples on the Web

Prepare for Mood Swings Teenagers can be moody, especially when tired or out of their comfort zone. —Judy Koutsky, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

In the grand entryway, Haller created a dramatic moment with a moody botanical wallpaper from Antoinette Poisson. —Morgan Goldberg, Architectural Digest, 26 Dec. 2024

The film is a feat of maximalist and moody production design and cinematography, but the tedious and overwrought script renders every character two-dimensional, despite the effortful acting and teary pronunciations. —Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 24 Dec. 2024

Kylie Jenner, Kate Moss, and Lisa all put their spin on the deep, moody shade inspired by the juicy fruit. —Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

moody

adjective

ˈmüd-ē 

moodier; moodiest

1

: frequently influenced by moods

especially : affected by changeable and gloomy moods or bad temper

2

: expressing a mood

a moody face

moodily

ˈmüd-ᵊl-ē 

adverb

moodiness

ˈmüd-ē-nəs 

noun

Biographical Definition

Moody

biographical name

Moo·​dy ˈmü-dē 

Dwight Lyman 1837–1899 American evangelist