as in nostalgic
showing or evoking a sad longing for an often idealized past
She felt wistful looking through her college yearbook, remembering old friends she had not seen in decades.
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Recent Examples of wistful
For his evocative and wistful romance to yield its intended effect, writer-director Cyril Aris’ biggest ask of the viewer is to surrender to the serendipitous nature of the couple’s connection — a request that is later supported with a concept that expands the film’s magical realist vein.
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Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 4 Dec. 2025
Some of us prefer our Christmas music on the pensive side, with wistful lyrics about dusky snowfalls and memories.
—Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025
But this is no wistful indie meditation on loneliness but a hard-as-nails 2-D physics-platformer in which timing and momentum are key.
—Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 3 Dec. 2025
Infused with Noah Baumbach's particular affection for offbeat humor and long shots of wistful glances, Jay Kelly charts new possibilities for Netflix.
—Madeleine Janz, PEOPLE, 30 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for wistful
Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 4 Dec. 2025
Some of us prefer our Christmas music on the pensive side, with wistful lyrics about dusky snowfalls and memories.
—Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025
But this is no wistful indie meditation on loneliness but a hard-as-nails 2-D physics-platformer in which timing and momentum are key.
—Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 3 Dec. 2025
Infused with Noah Baumbach's particular affection for offbeat humor and long shots of wistful glances, Jay Kelly charts new possibilities for Netflix.
—Madeleine Janz, PEOPLE, 30 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for wistful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wistful
Adjective
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Opt for warm-toned lights to help your space feel extra cozy, or choose multi-colored lights for a touch of nostalgic ‘90s charm.—
Cori Sears,
Better Homes & Gardens,
13 Jan. 2026
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Inside, a nostalgic feast of Italian maximalism has been scrupulously returned to its former glory by Alfio Puglisi, whose family have owned this shrunk-in-the-wash, flamboyant palazzo since the 17th century.—
Rosalyn Wikeley,
Condé Nast Traveler,
12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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The couple frequently share dreamy evenings in their backyard, like a picnic date night with takeout.—
Brendan Le,
PEOPLE,
9 Jan. 2026
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Playful pastel hues and delicate details give this manicure a light, dreamy charm.—
Kat Suico,
InStyle,
8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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The crewneck sweater with button details and batwing sleeves creates an oversized fit that feels effortless without looking sloppy.—
Chaise Sanders,
Travel + Leisure,
16 Jan. 2026
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The win snapped a two-game losing streak for Joe Mazzulla’s squad, which looked sluggish and sloppy for much of the night.—
Zack Cox,
Boston Herald,
16 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Wistful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wistful. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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