MAUDLIN Meaning and
Definition
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Maudlin is an adjective that refers to a person or their behavior, particularly their display of excessive sentimentality, especially when it comes to expressing sorrow or pity for oneself, often in a self-indulgent and exaggerated manner. It describes a state of being overly emotional, tearful, and weepy that is seen as insincere or excessively sentimental.
The term "maudlin" originates from the Middle English word "maudelen," which initially referred to Mary Magdalene, a character in the New Testament of the Bible often depicted as being tearful and repentant. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of someone being excessively emotional or teary-eyed. Today, it is used to describe individuals who are prone to exaggerated displays of sadness, pity, or sorrow, often in a way that seeks attention or sympathy.
When describing behavior or sentimentality as maudlin, it conveys the notion of a person wallowing in their emotions, sometimes for the sake of gaining sympathy or manipulating others to feel pity or tenderness towards them. This characteristic is often viewed negatively, as it implies a lack of authenticity or a tendency to be overly self-centered in one's expression of sentiment. People who are maudlin may engage in theatrical displays of emotion, often accompanied by copious tears, to invoke sympathy or gain support from others.
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• Crying, or sentimentally drunk; fuddled; approaching to intoxication; stupid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MAUDLIN
Etymology of MAUDLIN
The word "maudlin" originated from the Old English term "mǣw(e)d-lēan", which meant "Magdalene". This word was derived from the name of Mary Magdalene, a biblical figure often associated with excessive weeping and repentance. Over time, "mǣw(e)d-lēan" evolved into "maudlin" and came to describe someone who is tearfully sentimental or overly emotional.
Similar spelling words for MAUDLIN
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