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

Both Lionfish and Fifth & Rose are serving up creative cocktails, while Fifth & Rose skews a little moodier into the night and would make a romantic date spot. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Apr. 2026

The exaggerated use of black in this trendy backyard by Allweather Landscape gives the space a super modern and moody look. —Cori Sears, The Spruce, 29 Apr. 2026

The outdoor textures and tones are reflected (quite literally) in the interiors, as well, whose luxe Scandi style is expressed via a moody color palette, plush furniture, and a wood-burning stove. —Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 29 Apr. 2026

Yet the dark and moody diminutive space, designed with every detail carefully considered, feels airy and light, in no small part thanks to the thoughtful staff who bring life and a sense of place. —Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026

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