WISTFUL Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

wistful

adjective

Definition of wistful

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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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of wistful Bitingly funny in its comedy and wistful in its drama, the film rests on the delicate performance of newcomer Verma, a diminutive, age-appropriate actor who molds Ilyas in captivating ways. — Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 5 Aug. 2026 The Black Seed writers are abrasive, wistful, humorous, and loaded with insight. — The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2026 The wistful ballad showcased Ronstadt’s powerhouse range, culminating in a breathtaking final note. — Rance Collins, Entertainment Weekly, 17 July 2026 Henery and Alex Dow’s guitar riffs steal the show, supporting his words through a wistful, heavy bridge. — Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for wistful

Recent Examples of Synonyms for wistful

Adjective

To add a cozy, nostalgic element to your home, the designers are sharing the top color combinations that are making a comeback.

— Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Aug. 2026
White suggests nuts, popcorn, bite-size desserts, cheese boards, or, of course, nostalgic candy.

— Heather Bien, Southern Living, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of nostalgic

Adjective

But a 17-point win masked how off-kilter and sloppy the offense looked against the overmatched Huskies.

— John Talty, Vanity Fair, 2 Sep. 2026
Vaughn Grissom drove in four runs, rookie Walbert Ureña pitched seven strong innings and the Los Angeles Angels ended a seven-game losing streak with a 10-1 victory over the sloppy New York Yankees on Monday night.

— ABC News, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of sloppy

Browse Nearby Words

wispy

wistful

wit

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“Wistful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wistful. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of wistful

adjective

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