dour - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dour Word Meanings
- sullen and gloomy
- stern and unfriendly
- without cheerfulness
dour Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dour Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/daʊə/
US
/daʊɚ/
dour Word Etymology
dour = from 'dour' (adverse, stern) + root 'dure' (to harden). Origin: Latin 'durus' → Old French 'dour' → English. Imagine a stern figure with a hard face, refusing to smile amidst a joyful crowd.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Despite its gloom, dour describes someone whose expression is serious, unfriendly, or lacking in cheer. A dour boss may glare at every suggestion and rarely crack a smile, especially in a busy, noisy office. The term can carry a sense of steadiness as well as rigidity, implying that mood is intentionally withheld rather than merely sad. Dour can apply to faces, tones, or atmospheres that feel stern, unwelcoming, or unbright, often making others hesitant to speak up. Historically, it comes from Latin durus, via Old French dour, reinforcing the image of a hard, unyielding surface. In usage, avoid overstating it with too much drama.
Usage Reminders
- Dour is strong; use it for real seriousness or unfriendly mood, not everyday politeness.
- Describe the mood, face, or tone, not a passing feeling.
- Don't confuse dour with sad or depressed; it's more about sternness and lack of cheer.
- In informal contexts, dour can sound harsh or judgmental.
- Pair with concrete examples (glare, silence, cold tone) to convey meaning clearly.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking dour for sad or depressed.
- Thinking dour only describes a person’s mood, not a setting or atmosphere.
- Assuming dour always implies harshness or anger.
- Using dour when a simple 'serious' would suffice can sound melodramatic.
- Confusing dour with 'stern' in every context; nuance changes by tone and setting.
Thinking Differences
In English, dour often signals an intentional reserve in mood or facial expression, and learners should note that it carries more weight than simply being serious. It can apply to atmosphere as well as people, which is less common in some languages where the equivalent word is more limited to individuals. Learners often mistake dour for sad or depressed, so look for cues like a fixed gaze, a tight mouth, or a cold tone to distinguish.
Learning Tips
- Read the word in a sentence to notice the nuance.
- Compare dour with stern, severe, and somber to feel subtle differences.
- Look for cues like a fixed gaze and lack of smiles when you hear dour.
- Practice describing moods or atmospheres, not only people.
- Use dour sparingly in writing to avoid sounding melodramatic.
- Remember its origin hints at hardness and rigidity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'dour'?
A.Eager
B.Happy
C.Gloomy
D.Loud
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'dour' used correctly?
A.The dour puppy wagged its tail happily.
B.He couldn't stop laughing at the dour joke.
C.She had a dour expression on her face after winning the lottery.
D.The dour weather made everyone smile.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'dour'?
A.Grim
B.Rowdy
C.Excited
D.Cheerful
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'dour'?
A.Serious
B.Jovial
C.Stoic
D.Solemn
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone be described as 'dour'?
A.Reacting to bad news with a frown
B.Giving a speech at a wedding
C.Attending a birthday party
D.Celebrating a promotion
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