Describes a heavy, deeply sad atmosphere, expression, or silence, often in formal or literary contexts.
A grave atmosphere hung over the conference room.
彼は沈痛な面持ちでその知らせを聞いた。
He listened to the news with a sorrowful expression.
Compound of 沈 (sink, be submerged) and 痛 (pain), suggesting a deep, heavy sorrow.