Mel″an‐chol‐y (?), n. [OE. melancolie, F. mélancolie, L. melancholia, fr. Gr. �; μέλασ, -ανοσ, black + � gall, bile. See Malice, and 1st Gall.]
1. Depression of spirits; a gloomy state continuing a considerable time; deep dejection; gloominess. Shak.
2. Great and continued depression of spirits, amounting to mental unsoundness; melancholia.
3. Pensive maditation; serious thoughtfulness. “Hail, divinest Melancholy!” Milton.
4. Ill nature. Chaucer.