wistful

adjective

Definition of wistfulnext
as in nostalgic
showing or evoking a sad longing for an often idealized past She felt wistful looking through her college yearbook, remembering old friends she had not seen in decades.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of wistful That's in part because the Slate pickup comes exclusively in two-seat single-cab form, a fact that should only further endear it to wistful lovers of classic small pickups. — New Atlas, 24 June 2026 That wistful undertow stems from Zimmerman’s casual acceptance of his advancing age. — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 22 June 2026 And Rudd, as the happy mid-lifer who can’t help wanting a little more, is appealing in that characteristically boyish, Rudd-like way, though there’s also something deeply wistful about him. — Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 29 May 2026 Director Michiel Van Erp draws memorable performances from his cast while screenwriter Frank Houtappels’ wistful story reminds us of a bygone era and how reconciling with your past can sometimes be the hardest thing to do. — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for wistful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wistful
  1. nostalgic
  2. dreamy
  3. sloppy
Adjective
  • Amid the allure of international jet-setters, luxury aficionados, art enthusiasts, and avant-garde travelers, five-star Hôtel Lou Pinet offers a serene retreat that captures nostalgic charm and the essence of bohemian chic.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • This nostalgic tradition, which calls for a bit of patience, belongs on every old-fashioned summer bucket list.
    — Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 4 July 2026
Definition of nostalgic
Adjective
  • These sheer, almond-shaped, pink French tip nails are dreamy.
    — Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 3 July 2026
  • There’s nothing quite like waking up in a dreamy hotel bed complete with luxurious linens spritzed with a scent that reminds you of your favorite getaway.
    — Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2026
Definition of dreamy
Adjective
  • England looked disjointed and sloppy for much of the first half, while Congo was bright and creative with the ball and held England at bay defensively.
    — Bailey Johnson, Washington Post, 1 July 2026
  • The regulars were middle-aged men who routinely drank five or six cocktails after work and were only rarely sloppy.
    — Meghan O’Gieblyn, Harpers Magazine, 30 June 2026
Definition of sloppy

Browse Nearby Words

wispy
wistful
wit
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Cite this Entry

“Wistful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wistful. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on wistful

Nglish: Translation of wistful for Spanish Speakers

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