Bathetic: meaning, definitions and examples
π’
bathetic
[ bΙΛΞΈΙtΙͺk ]
literature tone
Bathetic refers to something that is overly sentimental or emotionally flat, especially in a context that is intended to be profound or serious. It often describes writing or speech that fails to evoke the intended emotional response due to its exaggerated sentimentality.
Synonyms
corny, maudlin, sappy, sentimental.
Examples of usage
- The novel was criticized for its bathetic ending.
- Her bathetic speech left the audience feeling unimpressed.
- He tried to be serious, but his words came off as bathetic.
- The film's bathetic moments undercut its dramatic tension.
Etymology
The term 'bathetic' derives from the Greek word 'bathos,' which means 'depth.' The original Greek root refers to a profound depth, but in modern usage, it has taken on a more negative connotation. Emerging in the late 19th century, 'bathos' began to describe a sudden shift from the sublime to the trivial or ridiculous, often in literature or art. 'Bathetic' is the adjectival form of 'bathos' and indicates a failure to maintain emotional depth or seriousness, often slipping into excessive sentimentality. Over time, it has commonly been applied to various forms of art and communication, particularly when the intended gravity of a subject is undermined by cloying emotion or insincerity. This semantic shift illustrates how language evolves and how specific terms can develop complex meanings over time, especially as cultural standards for art and expression change.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,021, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.