maudlin
/ˈmɔːdlɪn/
adjective
Origin
Latin
Magdalena — of Magdala
Overview
Meaning Now
- Self-pityingly or tearfully sentimental, often through drunkenness.
- Effusively or insincerely emotional.
Literal older meaning
Referring to Mary Magdalene, who was traditionally depicted with red, swollen eyes from weeping.
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → English
Earliest form
Maudelaine
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The word traces back to Mary Magdalene. In medieval art, she was frequently depicted as a repentant sinner with eyes reddened and swollen from weeping. By the 16th century, the name 'Maudlin' became a byword for a person given to excessive, tearful displays of emotion, particularly in the context of being 'maudlin-drunk'.
Evolution
- 1st century, Latin
Magdalena
“Mary of Magdala”
Derived from the Hebrew name for the town of Magdala.
- 14th century, Middle English
Maudelaine
“Mary Magdalene”
Represented in religious art with eyes swollen from constant weeping.
- 16th century, English
maudlin
“tearful, sentimental”
Shifted from the person to the demeanor associated with her depiction.
- 17th century, English
maudlin
“drunkenly sentimental”
Combined with the idea of 'maudlin-drunk', a state where one weeps while intoxicated.
Connections
Word parts
Maudlin
root
derived from the name Magdalene
Related across languages
French
Madeleine
a small sponge cake or the name Mary Magdalene
Related words
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.