English Reference
adjective

moody

adj.
US /ˈmudi/ UK /mˈuːdi/ moody

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    having feelings that change quickly, especially becoming angry or unhappy for no clear reason.

    subject to sudden or frequent changes of mind or emotional state; temperamental.

    Simple

    He has been very moody lately, snapping at everyone for the smallest mistakes.

    In context

    The lead singer was notoriously moody, often refusing to perform if the backstage atmosphere didn't perfectly suit his temperament.

    stableeasy going
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    feeling unhappy, quiet, and unwilling to talk to others.

    sullen, sulky, or withdrawn in a way that suggests unhappiness or resentment.

    Simple

    She sat in a moody silence for the rest of the car ride.

    In context

    After the team lost the championship, a moody atmosphere settled over the locker room as the players packed their gear in silence.

    sulkysullenglum
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    describing a place or piece of art that feels dark, mysterious, or slightly sad.

    evoking a particular, typically dark or melancholy, atmosphere or state of mind.

    Simple

    The film uses moody lighting to make the old house look scary.

    In context

    The photographer is famous for his moody landscapes, which capture the desolate beauty of the Scottish Highlands under heavy grey skies.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced British EnglishSlangInformal

    describing something that is fake, stolen, or not what it seems to be.

    of dubious origin; referring to goods that are counterfeit, stolen, or otherwise illegal.

    Simple

    He tried to sell me a moody watch on the street for ten pounds.

    In context

    The authorities raided the warehouse after receiving a tip-off about a large shipment of moody electronics being distributed to local markets.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated