Lachrymose

Adjective

Definition: Causing tears; tearful.

Synonyms: Tearful, Weepy, Sobbing, Crying

Antonyms: Happy, Cheerful, Joyful, Dry-eyed

Examples:
  • The movie's ending was so lachrymose, it left the audience in tears.
  • She couldn't help but feel lachrymose while reading the heart-wrenching novel.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of the word "lachrymose" as sounding like "lachrymal" which is related to the production of tears.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "lachrymose" comes from the Latin word "lacrimosus" which means "tearful" or "full of tears".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the early 18th century to describe something that evokes sadness or causes tears.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"A lachrymose farewell"

Explanation:

Referring to a farewell or goodbye that is accompanied by tears or an emotional display.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusion with similar-sounding words like "lacrimose" or "lacrimal".

Explanation:

While "lachrymose", "lacrimose", and "lacrimal" share a common origin, they have slightly different meanings. "Lachrymose" specifically describes something that causes tears or is tearful, while "lacrimose" has a broader connotation of being mournful or sorrowful, and "lacrimal" refers to structures or glands related to tears.

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