How Do You Spell VERKLEMPT?

Pronunciation: [vˈɜːklɛmpt] (IPA)

Verklempt is a Yiddish-derived word that means overcome with emotion or choked up. Its spelling can be a bit tricky, as it includes several consonants in a row. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /vərˈklɛmpt/ which breaks it down into its individual sounds: the "v" sound at the beginning, followed by a schwa or "uh" sound, then the consonants "r", "k", "l", "e", "m", "p", and "t". Despite its challenging spelling, verklempt has found its way into common usage and is often used to express a feeling of being overwhelmed with emotion.

VERKLEMPT Meaning and Definition

1. Verklempt is a Yiddish term that has been adopted into English vernacular, and it is often used to describe an overwhelmed emotional state. It refers to a feeling of being choked up or unable to express oneself due to strong emotions, whether they are positive or negative. Verklempt can be experienced in various situations, such as during happy occasions like weddings or the birth of a child, or during sad events like funerals or farewells.

   The term is derived from the Yiddish word "klempt," which means "pressed" or "squeezed." Verklempt captures the physical and emotional sensation of feeling constricted or emotional to the point of being speechless. The individual may experience tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing, or a lump in the throat, making it challenging to articulate their thoughts or feelings.

   Verklempt refers to a profound emotional reaction that goes beyond simply feeling moved, as it implies a level of intensity that overwhelms the individual. It often manifests as tears, trembling, or a sudden cracking of the voice when attempting to speak. The term is commonly used in informal conversations to describe someone in a state of deep emotional connection or overwhelmed sentimentality.

   Overall, verklempt embodies a range of indescribable emotions that temporarily disrupt an individual's ability to communicate and encapsulates the powerful impact of intense feelings on one's psyche.

Etymology of VERKLEMPT

The word verklempt comes from Yiddish, a language spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. The term is derived from the Yiddish word farklempt, which means overcome with emotion or choked up. The Yiddish word itself is a combination of the German word ver- (meaning for or completely) and the Yiddish word klempt (meaning pinched or clenched). The term verklempt gained popularity and entered English usage, especially in American Jewish communities, due to its frequent use by comedian Mike Myers in his portrayal of the character Linda Richman on the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live.