What does mood mean?
Mood is a word for a state of mind, feeling, or emotional disposition. It can describe a person’s temporary attitude toward events, as in 'in a good mood,' or refer more broadly to the character and atmosphere of a place, period, or artistic work. The expression 'change of mood' describes a shift in emotional state, while 'mood swing' commonly refers to a rapid or repeated change in emotion or enthusiasm. In formal and technical contexts, mood also has a grammatical meaning: it classifies verb forms according to the speaker’s attitude, including the indicative, imperative, and subjunctive moods. The word is related to older ideas of mind, disposition, and spirit, which explains why it can describe not only a passing feeling but also a person’s overall outlook. In modern English, it is far more common as a noun than as a verb, and it remains a useful word for discussing both personal emotions and the atmosphere of a scene or experience.
A state of mind or feeling, especially one that influences behavior, or the atmosphere and character associated with a place, situation, or artistic work.
"The warm sunlight gave the morning a peaceful mood."
Usually countable for a particular state of mind, as in 'a cheerful mood,' but often uncountable when referring to a shared or general atmosphere.
Archaic: to put into or affect a mood, especially to temper or influence someone's state of mind.
"The old music mooded the listeners into quiet contemplation."
This verb is rare and literary or archaic; the noun is the standard modern form.
The plural is used for different emotional states or changes in emotional state.
"The character experiences several mood changes throughout the novel."
The word mood comes from an Old English term that meant both 'mind' and 'spirit,' linking today's emotions to a much older idea of inner character and force.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mood come from?
The English word descends from Old English mōd, meaning mind, disposition, or spirit, and ultimately from Proto-Germanic *mōdą. In Middle English, mood continued to develop meanings connected with the mind, feelings, and characteristic disposition. Its Germanic relatives include Dutch moed, German Mut, and Norwegian mot, all associated with spirit, courage, or resolve.
Related word forms
How mood is actually used
In everyday use, mood is usually countable when referring to a particular state, as in 'a good mood' or 'in a bad mood,' but it can also be used collectively, as in 'the mood of the nation.' The word is neutral to slightly informal in emotional contexts and formal when referring to atmosphere or artistic character. The verb is archaic and rare in modern English.
Easily confused with mood
A mood is a state of mind or an emotional atmosphere, whereas a mode is a particular way of operating, behaving, or doing something.