English · Emotions & Feelings
wistful
ˈwɪstfəl
[ˈwɪstfəl]
sadly thoughtful
Intermediateadjective
Definition
Having a feeling of vague or gentle longing.
Example
She gave a wistful look at her childhood photos.
She gave a wistful look at her childhood photos.
Etymology
Possibly from 'wishful' blended with obsolete 'wistly' meaning 'intently'.
How & Where It’s Used
Describes gentle, sad longing for the past.