Sentimentality: meaning, definitions and examples

Sentimentality is often used to describe a situation or behavior where emotions, especially tender feelings, are expressed in an exaggerated or overly emotional way. It can be used positively or negatively depending on the context.

• Mary's sentimentality made her cry during every romantic movie
• The book's sentimentality resonated deeply with its readers

Mawkishness is used to describe an excessive or insincere display of emotion that can be annoying or cloying. It often implies that the emotion is overdone to the point of being sickening. This term has a negative connotation.

• The movie was filled with mawkishness that drove many viewers away
• His mawkishness when talking about his pet made everyone uncomfortable

Emotionalism refers to a tendency to display emotions openly and strongly. It is often used in contexts where emotions are expressed excessively and may influence decisions or behavior. This term can carry a slightly negative connotation as it suggests a lack of control over one's emotions.

• During the debate, his emotionalism got the better of him, leading to a passionate but incoherent argument
• Her emotionalism was evident during her speech, as she frequently choked up and teared

Schmaltz refers to exaggerated sentimentalism in art or entertainment, particularly when it is overly sweet or emotional. This term is often used in a negative or humorous way.

• The TV show was full of schmaltz, with over-the-top emotional scenes
• Her novel was criticized for its schmaltz, with one reviewer calling it a tear-jerking cliche

Used when describing excessive or exaggerated emotions, often in a way that could be seen as overly dramatic or lacking in depth.

• Her speech was filled with sentimentality that made it hard to take her seriously

Used to describe a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, often for a time or place with happy personal associations.

• He felt a wave of nostalgia when he found his old high school yearbook

Refers to a deep, personal bond or fondness for someone or something, typically based on experiences and interactions.

• She has a strong emotional attachment to her childhood home

Describes the tendency to base actions and decisions on emotions rather than reason, often used in a critical or negative sense.

• Her decisions are often clouded by sentimentalism, leading to impractical outcomes