mirthlessness

mirthlessness

A child's face shows mirthlessness at the rainy window.

Definition

Noun: The quality or state of being without mirth; a lack of amusement, cheerfulness, or joy.

Usage Examples
  • (A clear absence of joy in the gathering.)
  • (His constant lack of cheerfulness gave others a negative impression.)
Advanced Usage
  • "a mirthlessness of spirit": a profound or persistent lack of joy in one’s emotional state.
    • After the tragedy, a mirthlessness of spirit settled over the family. (A deep, lasting loss of cheerfulness.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Mirthless (adj): lacking mirth; joyless.
    • She gave a mirthless laugh, devoid of any real amusement. (A laugh without genuine happiness.)
  • Mirth (n): amusement, especially as expressed in laughter.
    • His joke caused much mirth among the audience. (Laughter and enjoyment.)
Synonyms
  • Joylessness: the state of being without joy.
  • Gloominess: a dark, sad, or depressing quality.
  • Cheerlessness: a lack of cheer or brightness.
Related Idioms
  • "A wet blanket": a person who spoils the enjoyment of others; often associated with mirthlessness.
    • He was such a wet blanket at the celebration, his mirthlessness dampening everyone’s mood. (His lack of joy ruined the fun.)