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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Morose” — 5 Other Ways to Say It

Being in a bad mood that is silent and unfriendly; unwilling to talk or be social.

IPA: /məˈroʊs/Level: C1Register: formalPart of speech: adj

Meaning of Morose

Gloomy, ill-tempered, and bad-humoured; showing or expressing a persistent sullenness.

How to Pronounce Morose

IPA: /məˈroʊs/ Stress: oO

Stress the second syllable: muh-ROSE. The final 's' is pronounced /z/.

Full pronunciation guide for morose →

5 Synonyms for Morose — Words Similar to Morose

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

taciturn

/ˈtæsɪtɜːrn/
adj C2 Formal

Not talkative; preferring silence; saying very little, especially about personal matters.

Example: The taciturn detective revealed nothing about the investigation until absolutely necessary.

Smart Synonyms for Morose — When to Use Each

sullen

Adds resentment beneath the silence.

dour

Emphasizes severe sternness and coldness.

taciturn

Focuses on reluctance to speak.

Antonyms of Morose — Opposite Words

How to Use Morose and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • After the argument, he became morose and refused to join the group. B1
  • The morose atmosphere in the office reflected widespread concern about layoffs. B2
  • His morose disposition belied an underlying melancholic wisdom. C1

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Morose

What is another word for "morose"?

Common synonyms for "morose" include: sullen, gloomy, cheerless, dour, taciturn.

What can I say instead of "morose"?

Try one of these alternatives: sullen, gloomy, cheerless, dour, taciturn. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "morose" formal or informal?

"morose" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.

When should I use "morose" instead of "sullen"?

Use "morose" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "sullen" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

What are the antonyms of "morose"?

Words with the opposite meaning of "morose" include: cheerful, sociable, agreeable, vivacious.

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