dourness

Definitions

The quality of being relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy in appearance or manner.

A state of being obstinate, sullen, or unyielding.

Examples

The dourness of his expression made it difficult for anyone to approach him with a lighthearted joke.

Despite the festive decorations, the dourness of the room remained unchanged due to the somber mood of the guests.

Synonyms

sternness grimness sullenness moroseness severity gloominess austere

Antonyms

cheerfulness amiability geniality joviality friendliness warmth lightheartedness