Pronunciation: [lˈɛdən] (IPA) 
The word "leaden" is spelled with the letters L-E-A-D-E-N. However, the pronunciation of this word does not match its spelling. The IPA phonetic transcription for "leaden" is /ˈlɛdən/. As you can see, the vowel sound in the first syllable is different from the letter "E" in the spelling. This can be confusing for learners of English. The word "leaden" means heavy or dull, and is often used to describe a feeling or atmosphere.
Leaden is an adjective that has multiple meanings and is commonly used to describe something that is heavy, dull, or lacking in liveliness.
In a physical sense, leaden refers to the characteristic of being heavy and difficult to lift or move. It implies that something possesses a weight similar to that of lead, which is a dense and heavy metal. For example, a leaden object may be difficult to carry due to its sheer mass or may cause a feeling of fatigue in the body.
Figuratively, leaden denotes a lack of vitality or energy. It describes something as being dull, monotonous, or uninspiring. For instance, a leaden conversation implies that it lacks enthusiasm, excitement, or any engaging qualities. Likewise, a leaden atmosphere at a party suggests that it is devoid of liveliness, with people appearing sluggish or unenthusiastic.
Additionally, leaden can also describe something that is pale or colorless in appearance. This usage is typically associated with skin complexion or facial expression. A person's face may appear leaden if they are sick, exhausted, or experiencing a lack of blood flow. In this context, it suggests a lack of vitality or health.
Overall, the term leaden conveys the notion of heaviness, dullness, lack of energy, or a somber quality in both physical and metaphorical senses.
Made of lead; heavy; black-lead, a substance, known also as plumbago, much used in the manufacture of pencils; a preparation for blacking and cleaning grates, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "leaden" is derived from the Old English word "lēaden", which was formed by combining the noun "lēad" (lead) with the suffix "-en" used to form adjectives. The noun "lēad" originates from the Old English word "lēah" and the Proto-Germanic word "*lauda", both meaning "lead". This ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*plumb", which also gave rise to the Latin word "plumbum" (lead) and the English word "plumb", referring to a weighted line used by builders. As for its connotation, the adjective "leaden" refers to something heavy, dull, or lacking in liveliness, similar to the properties associated with actual lead.
