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elegiac

adjective

/ˌɛlɪˈʤaɪək/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of elegiac

Mournful or melancholic, often associated with a sense of loss or sadness.
"The elegiac lyrics of the song captured the pain of lost love."

Detailed meaning of elegiac

It is commonly used to describe a type of poetry or music that is characterized by a mournful tone and subject matter. The word "elegiac" is derived from the Greek word "elegos," meaning "song of mourning," and it is often used to describe art that expresses a sense of lamentation or sorrow. An elegiac poem might be one that mourns the loss of a loved one, while an elegiac piece of music might be slow and mournful, evoking a sense of sadness and grief. Despite its negative connotations, the word "elegiac" can also be used to describe something that is deeply moving or poignant, expressing a sense of emotional depth and authenticity.

Example sentences containing elegiac

1. The elegiac music filled the room, evoking memories of a bygone era.
2. Her elegiac poem captured the essence of fading autumn beauty.
3. The film's elegiac ending left the audience teary-eyed and reflective.
4. The old man's elegiac reminiscences of his youth moved us deeply.
5. The elegiac tone of the painting conveyed a sense of quiet sorrow.
6. In the elegiac twilight, the city's skyline took on a serene grace.

History and etymology of elegiac

The adjective 'elegiac' has its etymological origins in ancient Greek poetry. It is derived from the Greek word 'elegos,' which referred to a mournful or plaintive poem or song, typically composed to lament the dead. Greek elegies often expressed themes of loss, sorrow, and melancholy. Over time, the term 'elegiac' came to describe not only the poetic form but also any expression, whether in literature, music, or art, that conveys a mournful or melancholic tone, often associated with a sense of loss or sadness. 'Elegiac' captures the somber and reflective mood of elegies, emphasizing the emotional depth and introspection commonly found in works that evoke a sense of mourning or melancholy. The etymology of 'elegiac' underscores its historical connection to the mournful and contemplative nature of elegy as an art form.

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Further usage examples of elegiac

1. The elegiac novel explored themes of love and loss with grace.
2. The hauntingly elegiac melody played on, haunting our hearts.
3. The forlorn, elegiac landscape spoke of time's relentless march.
4. His elegiac farewell letter left a bittersweet ache in her heart.
5. The elegiac poem beautifully captured the sorrow and longing of lost love.
6. The artist's elegiac painting depicted a desolate landscape, evoking a sense of melancholy.
7. The film's soundtrack had an elegiac melody that underscored the emotional depth of the story.
8. The old photographs brought back elegiac memories of a bygone era.
9. The writer's elegiac prose painted a vivid picture of a fading civilization.
10. The musician's elegiac composition stirred deep emotions in the audience.
11. The autumn leaves falling gently to the ground created an elegiac atmosphere.
12. The abandoned house stood as an elegiac reminder of a forgotten time.
13. The elegiac tone of the novel reflected the protagonist's sense of loss and longing.
14. The poet's elegiac verses captured the essence of fleeting beauty.
15. The aging actor delivered an elegiac monologue that touched the hearts of the audience.
16. The black and white photographs had an elegiac quality, capturing moments frozen in time.
17. The aging musician performed an elegiac piece on the piano, reminiscing about the past.
18. The elegiac symphony filled the concert hall with a haunting and reflective mood.
19. The filmmaker used elegiac cinematography to convey the passage of time and the transience of life.