MAUDLING Meaning and
Definition
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Maudlin, an adjective derived from the Middle English term "maudelen" or "maudle", is used to describe a sentimental or tearful display of emotions that can be excessive or self-indulgent. It refers to a state of being overemotional or overly sentimental to the point of being saccharine or insincere. Someone who is maudlin often displays this sentimentality in an exaggerated or affected manner, often in an attempt to elicit sympathy or attention from others.
Maudlin individuals tend to be easily moved to tears or become excessively sentimental at even the slightest provocation. They may display a propensity for dwelling on melancholic or nostalgic thoughts, frequently finding themselves overwhelmed by feelings of sadness or sorrow. The term can also encompass an overindulgence in sentimental or sappy moods, often accompanied by an inclination to engage in self-pity or exaggerated expressions of grief.
Due to its negative connotations, calling someone maudlin can indicate a judgment of their excessive displays of sentimentality as being insincere or manipulative. Despite this, certain situations may warrant genuine emotional outpourings that some might perceive as maudlin. It is important to note that the perception of maudlin behavior can be subjective, varying from person to person based on cultural, personal, or situational factors.
In summary, maudlin refers to an exaggerated or affected display of sentimentality, often characterized by excessive tearfulness or emotional self-indulgence.
Etymology of MAUDLING
The word "maudlin" comes from the Middle English term "Maudelen", which originally meant to be Mary Magdalene-like. Mary Magdalene was a biblical figure often depicted as weeping excessively and showing excessive sorrow. Over time, the term "maudelen" became associated with tearful, sentimentally emotional behavior. Eventually, this evolved into the term "maudlin", which now refers to someone who is excessively emotional or sentimental.
