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Sulky - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Sulky describes someone who is moody, silent, or bad-tempered due to annoyance or disappointment. It often implies a childish or petulant attitude, shown through withdrawn or sullen behavior.

sulky

/ˈsʌlki/ /ˈsʌlki/

Definition:

Bad-tempered, gloomy, or resentfully silent due to annoyance or disappointment.

Synonyms:

Moody, sullen, grumpy, morose

Part of Speech:

Adjective, noun

Antonyms:

Cheerful, happy

Common Collocations:

Sulky child, sulky mood, sulky expression

Derivatives:

Sulkily, sulkiness

Usage Tips:

Use "sulky" to describe someone silently brooding or refusing to engage due to irritation.

Common Phrases:

In a sulk, sulky silence, sulky teenager

Etymology:

Originates from mid-18th century "sulk," possibly imitative of a gloomy demeanor.

Examples:

  • 1. She gave him a sulky glare after losing the game.
  • 2. The child sat in the corner with a sulky expression.
  • 3. His sulky attitude ruined the party for everyone else.
  • 4. She responded in a sulky tone when asked about her day.

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