Definition of sentimentalitynext
as in sentimentalism
the state or quality of having an excess of tender feelings (as of love, nostalgia, or compassion) the sentimentality of the story of star-crossed lovers only made it even more popular with moviegoers

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sentimentality There’s so much joy, playfulness, but also a strong sense of sentimentality. — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 29 Sep. 2026 Much like Dear Donna at day, the menu aims for simplicity and brevity, approachability and warm sentimentality. — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 25 Sep. 2026 People who actually worked in the building have expressed less sentimentality. — Editorial Board, Washington Post, 18 Sep. 2026 And like any great sitcom, Friends runs the gamut from numbing brain-rot to tear-jerking sentimentality. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 9 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sentimentality
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sentimentality
sentimentalism
Noun
  • The Academy historically goes for sentimentalism.
    — Joe Reid, Vulture, 4 Oct. 2025
  • While leaders of the nature-study movement warned against sentimentalism and make-believe, young readers were delighted by such tales.
    — Jessica George, JSTOR Daily, 25 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sentimentality.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sentimentality. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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