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Dour - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Dour describes someone who is stern, gloomy, or unfriendly in manner or appearance. It often implies a lack of warmth or cheerfulness, making the person seem harsh or unapproachable.

dour

/dʊr/ /dʊə/

Definition:

Stern, gloomy, or sullen in manner or appearance.

Synonyms:

Grim, stern, sullen, morose, forbidding

Part of Speech:

Adjective

Antonyms:

Cheerful, jovial, sunny

Common Collocations:

Dour expression, dour mood, dour personality

Derivatives:

Dourly, dourness

Usage Tips:

Use "dour" to describe someone’s unfriendly or stern demeanor, often implying a lack of warmth or humor.

Common Phrases:

Dour look, dour face, dour disposition

Etymology:

From Old French "dur," meaning "hard," ultimately from Latin "durus."

Examples:

  • 1. The teacher’s dour expression silenced the noisy classroom.
  • 2. His dour attitude made the party less enjoyable for everyone.
  • 3. She gave him a dour glance before turning away.
  • 4. The old man’s dour demeanor hid a kind heart.

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