The word "sentimentalisation" is spelled with three syllables: sen-ti-men-tal-i-sa-tion /ˌsɛntɪmɛntəlaɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n/. It is derived from the noun "sentiment" and the verb suffix "-ize" which means to make or cause. The additional suffix "-ation" is added to indicate the action or process of making something sentimental. This word is commonly used to describe the act of attributing excessive emotions or nostalgia to something, often considered to be irrational or unrealistic.
Sentimentalisation refers to the act or process of imbuing an object, event, or person with sentimental or emotional value beyond its inherent characteristics, often resulting in an idealized or romanticized interpretation. It involves the tendency to attach a heightened emotional significance, nostalgia, or a sense of personal connection to something that may not objectively warrant such sentiments.
In this context, sentimentalisation can involve projecting one's own emotions and experiences onto an object or person, attributing sentimental value to it that may not be universally shared. It can also manifest as an oversimplified or distorted perception of reality, disregarding the nuances and complexities of a subject in favor of a more emotional or idealistic portrayal.
The act of sentimentalising can be driven by personal memories, associations, or cultural influences, and it often serves as a coping mechanism or a way to preserve and relive positive emotions or past experiences. While sentimentalisation can evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and connection, it can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations or an avoidance of facing the realities of the object or situation being sentimentalized.
Additionally, sentimentalisation can occur in various aspects of life, including art, literature, relationships, and history, where it may be used to create an emotional connection between the audience and the subject matter. However, it is important to recognize the potential for sentimentalisation to distort factual accuracy or create a biased viewpoint.
The word "sentimentalisation" is derived from the root word "sentimentalize" and the suffix "-ation".
The term "sentimentalize" originates from the adjective "sentimental", which first appeared in the late 18th century. It is formed by combining the word "sentiment" and the suffix "-al".
"Sentiment", in turn, comes from the Latin word "sentimentum", which means "feeling" or "opinion". It was borrowed into English in the 17th century, primarily in the sense of "inner feeling" or "emotion".
The suffix "-al" is commonly used in English to form adjectives from nouns, and in this case, it helps convert the noun "sentiment" into its corresponding adjective form, "sentimental".
Finally, the suffix "-ation" is used to form nouns from verbs in English.