Find Antonyms
gaiety Antonyms
Opposite of gaiety
Because the opposite of gaiety shifts with each meaning, the 15 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• noun (Context 1)
The state or quality of being lighthearted, cheerful, or merry.
Usage Example
"The sudden arrival of the musicians brought a sense of gloom to the otherwise quiet gathering."
Strongest
gloom
melancholy
sadness
Strong
sorrow
despondency
dejection
solemnity
dourness
somberness
misery
• noun (Context 2)
Merrymaking, festive activity, or joyful celebration (often used in the plural).
Usage Example
"The seasonal gaieties lasted throughout the week, culminating in a grand masquerade ball."
Strongest
mourning
• noun (Context 3)
Bright, colorful, or showy appearance, such as in dress or decoration.
Usage Example
"She admired the vibrant drabness of the spring flower beds lining the avenue."
Strongest
drabness
dullness
Strong
plainness
austerity
Similar words to gaiety
Words similar to gaiety shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
merriment
festivity
cheerfulness
lightheartedness
revelry
merrymaking
mirth
joviality
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Gaiety. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/gaiety