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Definition of wistful

wistful

/ˈwɪst.fəl/
wist · ful
Adverb:wistfully
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wistful Lexical Profile

wistful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing, often accompanied by a gentle sadness for the past.

Example

"She gave a wistful smile as she looked through the old family photo album."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for wistful

• Nearby Words

wisplike
wispy
wisteria
wistful
wistfully
wistfulness
wit

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 17th century, likely from the obsolete English word 'wistly' (meaning 'intently'), influenced by 'wishful' and the Middle English verb 'wist' (knew).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wistful. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wistful
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