Sentimentally: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe an excessive or self-indulgent appeal to emotions, often in a nostalgic or idealized way. It sometimes carries a negative connotation as being overly emotional.

• She kept her grandmother's old letters sentimentally, treasuring every word.
• He spoke about his childhood sentimentally, although some found it overdone.

Used to describe situations that involve strong feelings or are meant to elicit a strong emotional response.

• He reacted emotionally to the news of his friend's illness.
• The movie ended on an emotionally charged note.

Used to show affection or fondness, usually in a warm, loving way towards someone. Often expresses physical or emotional warmth.

• He affectionately patted his dog's head.
• She spoke affectionately of her childhood memories.

Used when describing gentle, loving actions or feelings, often in a caring manner towards someone else.

• She kissed his forehead tenderly before leaving the room.
• He held the baby tenderly, afraid to wake her up.

Used when describing actions or thoughts influenced by strong feelings of affection, nostalgia, or sadness. Generally conveys a sense of deep emotional attachment.

• He always speaks sentimentally about his childhood memories.
• She looked at the old photographs sentimentally.

Refers to an overly sentimental manner, often to the point of being sickening or insincere. Carries a negative connotation.

• She talked mawkishly about her pet's birthday.
• The novel's romance was mawkishly written, making it hard to take seriously.

Describes an excess of sentimentality, often seen as overly emotional or cheesy. Typically has a slightly negative connotation.

• The love letters were so soppy that they made everyone cringe.
• It's just a soppy movie filled with clichés.

Often implies an over-sentimental or tearful display, usually in a way that might seem exaggerated or insincere. Can have a slightly negative connotation.

• After a few drinks, he became maudlin and started crying over his ex-girlfriend.
• The movie had a maudlin ending that felt a bit too forced.