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nostalgic

adjective

/nɒˈstaldʒɪk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of nostalgic

Characterized by a longing or wistful affection for the past, particularly for moments, experiences, or aspects of one's personal history.
"She felt a nostalgic twinge as she drove past her childhood home."

Detailed meaning of nostalgic

It is often associated with fond memories of one's childhood or earlier years, and can be triggered by a wide range of things such as a certain smell, sound, or object. When someone is feeling nostalgic, they may experience a mix of emotions such as happiness, sadness, or a sense of loss. This term is often used to describe someone who is reminiscing about the past, and may have a desire to relive or recapture certain moments. While feeling nostalgic can be a comforting or pleasurable experience, it can also be bittersweet and tinged with a sense of wistfulness or longing for something that can never be fully recaptured.

Example sentences containing nostalgic

1. The old photographs filled her with a nostalgic warmth.
2. Listening to their favorite song made them feel nostalgic.
3. The vintage car brought back nostalgic memories of youth.
4. Visiting their childhood home was a deeply nostalgic experience.
5. The aroma of home-cooked meals was wonderfully nostalgic.
6. Hearing a familiar lullaby made her feel nostalgic for bedtime stories.

History and etymology of nostalgic

The adjective 'nostalgic' has its etymological roots in two Greek words: 'nostos,' meaning 'return home,' and 'algos,' meaning 'pain' or 'ache.' In essence, 'nostalgic' originally described the pain or ache associated with a longing to return home. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader sense of yearning and wistful affection for the past, particularly for moments, experiences, or aspects of one's personal history. This transition reflects the emotional complexity of nostalgia, which combines a sense of fondness for bygone times with a certain longing for their return. When we use the word 'nostalgic' today, we are drawing on its Greek roots to evoke the bittersweet feeling of longing for the past and the cherished memories it holds.

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Further usage examples of nostalgic

1. The handwritten letters evoked a sense of nostalgic longing.
2. A childhood toy stirred up nostalgic emotions.
3. The antique store was a treasure trove of nostalgic items.
4. Revisiting the old neighborhood felt nostalgic and heartwarming.
5. The retro fashion trend had a nostalgic appeal.
6. Seeing the familiar street corner was a nostalgic moment.
7. Reconnecting with childhood friends was a nostalgic joy.
8. Watching classic movies brought a nostalgic smile.
9. A family recipe passed down generations held a nostalgic taste.
10. Reading old diaries made her feel nostalgic for bygone days.
11. The vintage record player added a nostalgic touch to the room.
12. The vintage bookstore was a haven for nostalgic readers.
13. The old swing in the park brought back nostalgic memories.
14. A handwritten love letter felt wonderfully nostalgic in the digital age.
15. Listening to old records always makes me feel nostalgic for my teenage years.
16. Looking through my old photo albums fills me with a sense of nostalgic longing.
17. The old diner had a nostalgic feel that reminded me of my childhood.
18. He felt nostalgic for the simpler times of his youth.
19. The smell of fresh-baked cookies always makes me feel nostalgic for my grandmother's kitchen.
20. The old movie theater had a nostalgic charm that you don't see in modern cinemas.
21. The vintage car show brought back a flood of nostalgic memories for the older attendees.
22. His nostalgic stories about growing up in the 50s always captivate his grandchildren.
23. The old family recipe brought a nostalgic taste of the past to the holiday table.
24. The antique shop was filled with nostalgic treasures that sparked memories for many visitors.
25. Nostalgic Christmas carols always put me in the holiday spirit.