Mollycoddle: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when someone is being overprotected or excessively cared for in a way that might make them weak or less capable. This term often has a negative connotation.

• He mollycoddles his kids so much that they never learn to handle problems on their own.
• She's been mollycoddled by her parents since she was a child, and now she can't make any decisions by herself.

This word is used to describe treating someone very kindly or generously, often providing luxuries or extra care. It generally has a positive connotation.

• She loves to pamper herself with a spa day once a month.
• He's always been pampered by his grandparents with treats and attention.

This word is used when giving someone too much attention, generosity, or leniency, to the point of potentially causing negative effects like bratty or demanding behavior. It often has a negative connotation.

• They spoil their kids by giving them whatever they ask for.
• He was spoiled rotten by his parents, and now he can't handle being told no.

Use this word when someone is allowing themselves or others to enjoy a luxury or pleasure, often to an excessive degree. This can be neutral or slightly negative depending on the context.

• I like to indulge in a piece of chocolate every now and then.
• They tend to indulge their daughter with gifts and sweets.

This word is used to describe treating someone as if they were an infant, often in a caring or overly protective manner. It can also have a negative connotation if it implies someone is being treated immaturely.

• Stop babying him and let him try to do it by himself.
• She felt insulted when her teammates started babying her after she made a mistake.

Primarily used to describe someone who has been overprotected or treated too leniently, leading to them being pampered. It often has a negative connotation.

• Stop mollycoddling him. He needs to learn to do things on his own.
• She mollycoddles her younger brother, never letting him face any challenges.

Used to describe someone who has been given excessive privileges or material goods, leading them to become unappreciative or entitled. This term typically carries a distinctly negative connotation.

• She's a spoiled person who throws tantrums when she doesn't get her way.
• The children have become spoiled persons due to their parents' constant indulging.

Refers to someone who is excessively indulged and enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, often with a mildly negative tone, suggesting they may be spoiled.

• He's a pampered individual who never had to work for anything.
• Living as a pampered individual can make it difficult to handle real-life challenges.

Used to describe someone who relies on others for support, especially financially or emotionally. This can be neutral or negative, depending on the context.

• As a student, he was still dependent on his parents for money.
• Being too dependent on others for happiness can be unhealthy.