Lachrymose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lachrymose
[ˈlaɪkrɪˌmoʊs ]
Definition
emotional state
Lachrymose refers to a tendency to cry or be tearful, often in a sorrowful or melancholic manner. It is used to describe individuals or situations that are excessively sad or weepy. The term originates from the Latin word 'lacrimosus', which means 'full of tears'. It can apply to literature, film, or real-life instances where emotions are heightened and lead to tears.
Synonyms
melancholy, sad, sorrowful, tearful, weepy.
Examples of usage
- She gave a lachrymose performance that left the audience in tears.
- The movie was so lachrymose that I couldn't help but cry.
- His lachrymose attitude made it difficult for him to enjoy the party.
- The story had a lachrymose ending that resonated with many readers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many poets and authors use this word to express deep sorrow in their characters, often highlighting tragedy.
- In modern fiction, characters described as 'lachrymose' may symbolize vulnerability or emotional depth.
Film and Media
- Movies often depict 'lachrymose' moments where characters experience profound loss, leaving audiences emotional.
- Dramatic scenes in theater embrace this theme, using music and lighting to heighten feelings of sadness.
Psychology
- Feeling 'lachrymose' can arise from various experiences, including grief, regret, or loss.
- Recognizing this emotional state is crucial in therapy, as it can lead to healthier coping mechanisms.
Music
- Many songs evoke a 'lachrymose' feeling through lyrics that explore themes of love lost or heartbreak.
- Composers often create melodies that are melancholic to enhance the emotion associated with sadness.
Origin of 'lachrymose'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'lacrima', meaning 'tear', which explains its connection to sadness.
- It was popularized in English during the 19th century as writers started using it to describe melancholic emotions.
The word 'lachrymose' traces its root back to the early 17th century, deriving from the Latin term 'lacrimosus', which means 'tearful' or 'sorrowful'. This, in turn, is derived from 'lacrima', meaning 'tear'. The evolution of the word reflects a historical emphasis on emotional expressions and the physical manifestations of sadness in both literature and everyday speech. Its usage has often been linked to art and drama, particularly in contexts where emotional depth and vulnerability are portrayed. Over time, 'lachrymose' has maintained a somewhat literary connotation, often used to describe characters in novels or films who embody excessive sorrow or sensitivity.