mellow

mel-low · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Soft, rich, and pleasant in sound, taste, or color; free from harshness.

  2. 2.

    Relaxed, calm, and easygoing in temperament.

  3. 3.

    (of fruit) Fully ripe, soft, and sweet.

  4. 4.

    (informal) Pleasantly relaxed, often due to alcohol or marijuana.

  5. 5.

    To become or make more relaxed, mature, or gentle over time.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mellow out — to relax or become calm
  • •
    mellow with age — to become gentler or more pleasant over time

Related words

Antonyms: bitter, harsh, sharp, tense, unripe
See also: relaxed, ripe, smooth, soft
Synonyms: gentle, relaxed, ripe, smooth, soft

Etymology

From Middle English melwe, possibly related to "meal" (as in ground grain), suggesting softness. The word has been in use since the 15th century, originally describing ripe fruit and later extended to sounds, colors, and personalities.