soulful

UK: ˈsəʊlfʊl | US: ˈsoʊlfʊl

Definition

  1. adj. expressing deep feeling or emotion

  2. adj. full of soul; spiritually or emotionally intense

Structure
soul <spirit, essence>ful <full of>
Etymology

The word "soulful" combines "soul," derived from Old English sāwol (meaning "spiritual or emotional core"), with the suffix "-ful," from Old English -full (meaning "full of"). The term emerged in the 19th century to describe music, art, or expressions imbued with profound emotional depth, reflecting the cultural emphasis on soul as a metaphor for authenticity and passion.

Examples

  1. Her soulful voice moved the audience to tears.

  2. The painting captures a soulful melancholy.

  3. He played a soulful melody on the saxophone.

  4. The actor gave a soulful performance in the drama.

  5. Their eyes met in a soulful moment of understanding.