# mellow

/ˈmɛɫoʊ/ (US) · /mˈɛləʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mellow
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

relaxed, calm, and pleasant. You use this to describe a person who is easygoing or a sound that is soft and smooth.

For teachers: characterised by a relaxed, easygoing temperament or a soft, resonant quality of sound. Often describes the pleasant maturity of wine, cheese, or a person's character over time.

## Examples

- He became much more mellow as he got older.
- After a long day at the office, she liked to listen to some mellow jazz to help her unwind.
- The golden hour light gave the entire valley a mellow glow, softening the sharp edges of the granite cliffs and signaling the end of the trek.

## Usage notes

- Often follows linking verbs like 'become', 'stay', or 'feel'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.