Cloyed: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'cloyed' originates from the Middle English word 'cloien', which means to cloy or to choke. This term evolved from the Old French word 'cloer', which means to suppress or suffocate. The original sense of 'cloy' was associated with choking, which later metaphorically extended to describe a feeling of being overwhelmed by excess. The transition in meaning reflects the way pleasure can turn to distaste when it becomes excessive. By the late 17th century, 'cloy' began appearing in English literature to describe the sense of fatigue from overindulgence, particularly in reference to sweet food or overly sentimental art. Today, 'cloyed' is often used in various contexts, including literature, movies, and discussions about food, highlighting the delicate balance between enjoyment and saturation.

Ranking #38,610, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 38607 bellicosity
• 38608 belaboured
• 38609 prevaricated
• 38610 cloyed
• 38611 inspirited
• 38612 lorgnette
• 38613 unhappiest
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