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saturnine

adjective

/ˈsatənʌɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of saturnine

Characterized by a gloomy, moody, or melancholic disposition, often marked by a serious or stern demeanor.
"The saturnine atmosphere of the city was largely due to the constant overcast weather."

Detailed meaning of saturnine

When someone or something is described as saturnine, it suggests a temperament or atmosphere that is heavy with a sense of introspection, seriousness, or even cynicism. This term can apply to various contexts, such as a person with a saturnine expression who appears distant or pensive, a room with a saturnine ambiance that feels somber or austere, or a piece of literature with a saturnine tone that explores deep and often brooding themes. "Saturnine" underscores the idea of a demeanor or atmosphere that is tinged with solemnity and introspection, often suggesting a profound or contemplative mood.

Example sentences containing saturnine

1. His saturnine expression suggested he was lost in deep thought.
2. The cloudy weather cast a saturnine atmosphere over the city.
3. Her saturnine demeanor indicated that something was bothering her.
4. The character in the novel had a saturnine personality, always brooding and introspective.
5. The politician's saturnine remarks dampened the festive mood of the event.
6. The old painting had a saturnine quality, with dark hues dominating the canvas.

History and etymology of saturnine

The adjective 'saturnine' has its etymological roots in astrology and ancient beliefs. It is associated with the planet Saturn, which was traditionally linked to a somber and melancholic temperament. In ancient astrology and medical theories like the four humors, people believed that one's personality and disposition were influenced by the celestial bodies, with Saturn being associated with a gloomy, moody, or melancholic disposition. Over time, 'saturnine' became a term used in English to describe someone as characterized by such qualities. It often suggests a person who is serious, stern, or even sullen in demeanor, and it conveys a sense of heaviness and introspection in their personality. While modern science has discredited the direct influence of celestial bodies on personality, 'saturnine' remains a word to describe someone with a particular temperament reminiscent of the old astrological associations.

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Further usage examples of saturnine

1. The doctor's saturnine diagnosis left the patient feeling anxious.
2. The news of the tragedy put a saturnine cloud over the community.
3. The actor's saturnine portrayal of the villain made the character truly menacing.
4. The stormy sea had a saturnine appearance, reflecting the turbulent weather.
5. The professor's saturnine lectures were often met with somber silence from the students.
6. The writer's saturnine prose captured the melancholic essence of the story.
7. The old mansion had a saturnine charm, with its dimly lit rooms and heavy draperies.
8. His saturnine attitude seemed to repel people from engaging in conversation.
9. The musician's saturnine music evoked a sense of longing and introspection.
10. The shadowy alleyways had a saturnine air, making them seem unwelcoming.
11. The actor's saturnine roles in films earned him a reputation for playing complex characters.
12. The constant rain gave the town a saturnine appearance, with wet streets and gray skies.
13. The poet's saturnine verses spoke of heartache and unfulfilled desires.
14. The old photographs had a saturnine quality, capturing moments of solemn reflection.