broody

adjective

ˈbrü-dē 

1

: being in a state of readiness to brood eggs that is characterized by cessation of laying and by marked changes in behavior and physiology

a broody hen

2

: given or conducive to introspection : contemplative, moody

broodiness noun

Synonyms of broody

• melancholy
• thoughtful
• reflective
• pensive
• contemplative

Examples of broody in a Sentence

a movie with a dark and broody atmosphere

he spent a long, broody weekend trying to figure out where his relationship with his girlfriend was headed

Recent Examples on the Web

The chickens were running on instinct — a broody hen sees something small and warm in her nest and sits on it. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026

Misfit is a patchouli-amber number that feels broodier and sophisticated, yet manages to wear light enough year-round. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2023

The camera takes time to adore the young protagonists, to admire their excellent surfaces, to look them straight in their moody, broody, serious eyes. — Television Critic, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

And she's torn between two love interests, a pair of basically interchangeable broody white boys, à la Felicity. — A.a. Dowd, Chron, 21 Nov. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for broody

• buddhi
• judy

Kids Definition

broody

adjective

ˈbrüd-ē 

: being in a condition to brood eggs

a broody hen