Atrabilious is a word that is not commonly used in everyday language. However, it is a word that can be found in many dictionaries and is often used in literature. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of atrabilious, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of its use.
Definitions
Atrabilious is an adjective that is used to describe a person who is melancholic, irritable, or gloomy. It is also used to describe a person who is suffering from an excess of black bile, which was believed by ancient physicians to be one of the four humors of the body.
Origin
The word atrabilious comes from the Latin word atrabilis, which means “black bile.” The word was first used in the 17th century to describe a person who was suffering from an excess of black bile, which was believed to cause melancholy and other mental disorders.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford Dictionary, atrabilious is defined as “melancholic or irritable.” In Merriam-Webster, it is defined as “melancholy or ill-tempered.” In the Cambridge Dictionary, it is defined as “tending to be irritable or gloomy.”
Associations
Atrabilious is often associated with melancholy, depression, and other mental disorders. It is also associated with the ancient medical theory of the four humors, which believed that an imbalance of bodily fluids could cause physical and mental illness.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of atrabilious include melancholic, gloomy, morose, sullen, and irritable.
Antonyms
Antonyms of atrabilious include cheerful, happy, optimistic, and jovial.
The same root words
The root word of atrabilious is atrabilis, which means “black bile.” Other words that share this root include atrabiliary, which refers to the production of black bile, and atrabiliousness, which refers to the state of being atrabilious.
Example Sentences
- His atrabilious temperament made it difficult for him to make friends.
- She was feeling particularly atrabilious today, and didn’t want to talk to anyone.
- The character in the book was described as having an atrabilious personality, always complaining and never satisfied.
- His atrabiliousness was a result of his long-term depression and anxiety.
- Despite his atrabilious demeanor, he was actually quite kind-hearted once you got to know him.