brown study

Dictionary of American Words And Phrases by John Russell Bartlett.

Deep thought; absence of mind. "He is in a brown study," i. e. in deep thought, or intent upon his book.


The adjective is here used in a metaphorical sense; brown being considered a dull, sober color. Comp. art. Blue.

Why, how now, sister, in a motley mouse?

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Faith, this brown study suits not with your black,

Your habit and your thoughts are of two colors.--Ben Jonson.

They live retired, and they doze away their time in drowsiness and brown studies; or, if brisk and active, they lay themselves out wholly in making common-places.--Norris.

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