
Sullen
Mood Indicator
Use 'sullen' to describe someone showing irritation or ill humor by a gloomy silence.

After losing the game, he had a sullen demeanor.
Not Rude
'Sullen' suggests a silent moodiness, not rudeness or meanness.

Her sullen attitude was more about her sadness than any dislike for us.
Temporary State
'Sullen' often implies a temporary state rather than a permanent trait.

He's usually cheerful, just a bit sullen today.
Compare with
BroodDisgruntledDourGloomyMoodyMorosePessimisticSulky
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