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Mollycoddle: meaning, definitions and examples

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mollycoddle

 

[ ˈmɒlɪˌkɒd(ə)l ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

to pamper

To treat someone with an excessive amount of care or attention, often in a way that prevents them from becoming independent or self-sufficient. Mollycoddling can involve overprotecting, spoiling, or indulging someone, typically to their detriment.

Synonyms

baby, indulge, pamper, spoil

Examples of usage

  • He was mollycoddled by his parents throughout his childhood, which made it difficult for him to cope with challenges as an adult.
  • The teacher refused to mollycoddle the students, believing that they needed to learn resilience and independence.
Context #2 | Noun

a person who is pampered

A person who is excessively indulged, protected, or spoiled, often to the point of being unable to cope with adversity or challenges. Mollycoddles may struggle with independence and self-sufficiency due to the overprotective nature of their upbringing.

Synonyms

dependent, pampered individual, spoiled person

Examples of usage

  • She's such a mollycoddle, always expecting others to take care of her every need.
  • The mollycoddle couldn't handle the simplest tasks on his own.

Translations

Translations of the word "mollycoddle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mimar

🇮🇳 लाड़ प्यार करना

🇩🇪 verhätscheln

🇮🇩 memanjakan

🇺🇦 панькатися

🇵🇱 rozpieszczać

🇯🇵 甘やかす (amayakasu)

🇫🇷 dorloter

🇪🇸 mimar

🇹🇷 şımartmak

🇰🇷 버릇없이 기르다 (beoreuseopsi gireuda)

🇸🇦 يدلل (yudallil)

🇨🇿 rozmazlovat

🇸🇰 rozmaznávať

🇨🇳 溺爱 (nì'ài)

🇸🇮 razvajati

🇮🇸 dekra

🇰🇿 еркелету

🇬🇪 გაანებივრო (gaanebivro)

🇦🇿 nazlandırmaq

🇲🇽 mimar

Word origin

The term 'mollycoddle' originated in the 19th century and is believed to be a combination of the names 'Mary' and 'Archibald'. It was initially used to describe a man who was overly protected or coddled by his parents, similar to the modern meaning of the word. Over time, it evolved to refer to anyone who is excessively pampered or spoiled. The concept of mollycoddling has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that it can hinder personal development and resilience.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,358, 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.