Synonyms

nostalgic

American

[no-stal-jik, nuh‑] / nɒˈstæl dʒɪk, nə‑ /

adjective

experiencing or exhibiting nostalgia, a sentimental or wistful yearning for the happiness felt in a former place, time, or situation.

Other Word Forms

nostalgically adverb

Etymology

Origin of nostalgic

nostalg(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Around 9 pm, I was feeling suffocated and nostalgic, so I got in the car to drive around town," a 28-year-old woman told AFP on Monday on condition that her identity be protected.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

This week, author Emma Rosenblum looks at what has Americans nostalgic for these years that seemed simpler.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

The first single, Days We Left Behind, premiered on BBC Radio Merseyside, and finds the singer in a wistful, nostalgic mood.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Chang’s line of thinking was measured and considerate, a concept that feels so outdated it’s almost nostalgic.

From Salon • Mar. 11, 2026

The kitchen smells of yeast, a nostalgic smell.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023