Words / C2

MORDL-in/ˈmɔːdlɪn/

Maudlin means weakly, self-pityingly sentimental, often after drink: a maudlin speech, maudlin tears. Sentimental is milder; lachrymose (this batch) is tearful without the self-pity. The word comes from Mary Magdalene in art. Do not call a controlled elegy maudlin.

Meaning

Self-pityingly emotional, often after drink; weakly sentimental.

Examples

• “A maudlin toast about “family” ignored the unpaid invoices.”
• “A maudlin toast about “family” ignored three unpaid invoices on the table.”
• “Lachrymose is weepy; maudlin is soggy self-pity. Sentimental can still be decent. Drink is a traditional collocation, not a requirement.”

Good to know

Tearfully self-pitying; soppy. Milder: sentimental. Tearful cousin: lachrymose. Often post-drink. Not a restrained lament.

Near in meaning

sentimental

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