What does mellow mean?

Pronunciation

/ˈmɛloʊ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Describing a person or atmosphere that is relaxed, calm, and soothing, often in a pleasant or enjoyable way.

Examples

• The mellow music playing in the background created a peaceful atmosphere.
• After a few drinks, he became more mellow and started telling jokes.

Synonyms

• Relaxed
• Calm
• Soothing

Antonyms

• Anxious
• Agitated
• Tense

Additional Information

The term “mellow” is often used to describe a state of being free from worry or stress, where one feels comfortable and at ease. It can also describe a person’s personality, indicating someone who is laid-back and easy-going.

In music, “mellow” is often used to describe a genre or style that is characterized by a soft, soothing sound, often with a focus on acoustic instruments.

Usage Notes

When using “mellow” to describe a person, be sure to consider the context in which the word is being used. In some cases, “mellow” may be used to imply laziness or lack of motivation, so be sure to clarify the intended meaning.

In music, “mellow” is often used as an adjective to describe a specific genre or style, but it can also be used as an adverb to describe the tone or atmosphere of a particular song or piece.

Cultural References

The term “mellow” has been used in popular culture to describe a range of things, from music genres to personality traits. In the 1960s and 70s, “mellow” was often used to describe the laid-back, hippie lifestyle.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Related Words or Phrases

• Laid-back
• Easy-going
• Chill

Collocations

• mellow music
• mellow atmosphere
• mellow vibes

Frequency of Use

The term “mellow” is moderately common in modern language, often used in informal contexts to describe a relaxed or soothing atmosphere.

Common Misspellings

• melllow
• mellou
• mello