sulky - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sulky Word Meanings
- in a bad mood
- silent and moody
- showing a bad temper
sulky Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sulky Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsʌlki/
US
/ˈsʌlki/
sulky Word Etymology
Root: sulk (to be silent and moody). Historical origin: Middle English from Old Norse 'sulkr' meaning 'sullen'. Memory image: Imagine a child sitting alone in a corner, arms crossed, with a frown on their face, just sulking after being told 'no'.
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
Sulky describes someone who is in a bad mood and keeps to themselves, often silent, moody, and ready to snap. Someone sulks when they feel slighted or annoyed and they show their temper through a downturned mouth or a stiff silence rather than loud words. In everyday speech you might say 'He moped, sitting in the corner, looking sulky after being told no.' It is stronger than 'unhappy' or 'quiet' and closer to 'sullen' or 'irritable' but not as harsh as 'angry.' Memory image: imagine a child sitting alone in a corner, arms crossed, with a frown after being told 'no'.
Usage Reminders
- Sulky describes a mood that lasts; not a single moment. It pairs with be, look, or stay. It is stronger than sad but not as strong as angry. It often describes a quiet, withdrawn mood rather than outward anger. Avoid overusing in formal writing.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking sulky only means being sad.
- Believing sulky always involves talking back or complaining.
- Confusing sulky with grumpy as equal in intensity.
- Using sulky to describe adults in formal situations.
- Assuming it lasts only a moment rather than a mood.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, sulky signals a mild, internal mood rather than outward action. Learners often confuse it with sad or moody, or try to force it onto adults. Remember it pairs with be/look/stay and describes lingering, quiet annoyance more than anger.
Learning Tips
- Study be/look/stay collocations with sulky
- Compare sulky with sullen, moody, and grumpy
- Listen for nonverbal cues when you hear sulky
- Practice small talk in a sulky mood scenario
- Use in informal speech to describe a mood
- Record yourself to check tone and intensity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'sulky' mean?
A.Happy and cheerful
B.Gloomy and moody
C.Quiet and withdrawn
D.Energetic and lively
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'sulky'?
A.After losing the game, she was sulky and refused to talk.
B.He was sulky while he made a sandwich.
C.The bright sun made her feel sulky.
D.They danced sulky at the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'sulky'?
A.Cheerful
B.Friendly
C.Grumpy
D.Excited
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sulky'?
A.Joyful
B.Sullen
C.Unhappy
D.Irritable
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might act sulky?
A.Everyone celebrated the good news with excitement and cheer.
B.A group of friends is laughing and enjoying ice cream together.
C.A child who lost their favorite toy is being quiet and won't play.
D.They always seemed joyful and ready for new adventures.
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