moody

adjective

ˈmü-dē 

moodier; moodiest

1

: subject to depression : gloomy

2

: subject to moods : temperamental

3

: expressive of a mood

moodily

ˈmü-də-lē 

adverb

moodiness

ˈmü-dē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• volatile
• impulsive
• changeful
• irritable
• unstable
• temperamental

Examples of moody in a Sentence

I don't know why I get so moody sometimes.

She's a moody woman—she can be happy one minute and angry the next.

The room's moody lighting suggested mystery and romance.

Recent Examples on the Web

Bright greens and yellows are big no-nos, but warm, earthy tones make a well-balanced pairing for this fiery hue, particularly in spaces like the more traditional, moody interiors of Marcum’s home. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Oct. 2025

What with its rippling mountains, meditative lochs, and misty woodlands, Scotland’s moody atmosphere hits its stride in the cooler seasons. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 12 Oct. 2025

Although the house’s silhouette leans more modern, Alice anchored it with natural textures and a color palette that echoes the lake’s moody greens. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2025

Cats are moody creatures that can get bored easily from the same old, same old. —Christine Persaud, USA Today, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for moody

• broody
• buddhi
• judy

Kids Definition

moody

adjective

ˈmüd-ē 

moodier; moodiest

1

: frequently influenced by moods

especially : affected by changeable and gloomy moods or bad temper

2

: expressing a mood

a moody face

moodily

ˈmüd-ᵊl-ē 

adverb

moodiness

ˈmüd-ē-nəs 

noun

Biographical Definition

Moody

biographical name

Moo·​dy ˈmü-dē 

Dwight Lyman 1837–1899 American evangelist