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

Inspired by its history and forest setting, the interiors take cues from hunting lodges, but with a high-end twist provided by terrazzo flooring, stunning light fixtures, plush furnishings, and a moody color palette. —Livia Caligor, Architectural Digest, 23 Dec. 2025

The designer recommends replacing the safety of beige with deep ochres, mossy greens, and moody blues that maintain a sense of calm thanks to their roots in nature. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025

Celebrity nail artist Mei Kawajiri uses red glitter on top of a dark base for a deep shade of crimson that’s moody and alluring. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 19 Dec. 2025

With its soft exterior and adorable face, this plushie is sure to brighten up even the moodiest tweenager’s day. —Anja Webb, Parents, 19 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