moody

adjective

ˈmü-dē 

moodier; moodiest

1

: subject to depression : gloomy

is often moody in the winter

2

: subject to moods : temperamental

moody teenagers

3

: expressive of a mood

a moody painting/ballad/film

moodily

ˈmü-də-lē 

adverb

moodiness

ˈmü-dē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of moody

• 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

One viewing might not be enough, two will certainly make things a bit clearer, but Sound of Falling — like its moody title — is not a puzzle waiting to be solved. —Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 12 Dec. 2025

Take Bernard’s, a moody cocktail boite done up with leather and tweed accents. —Amy Tara Koch, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2025

For example, a dark door contrasting lighter walls can add to a moody look, especially when the same color is used on the trim that surrounds the door. —Heather Bien, Southern Living, 11 Dec. 2025

Think of it like Art Deco’s sleeker, moodier cousin. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, 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