What is the etymology of maudlin?

Answer 1

Origin:

"Maudlin" comes from the Middle English form of "Magdalene", referring to Mary Magdalene, a biblical figure.

Over time, Mary Magdalene was often depicted in art and religious stories as a weeping, repentant sinner, especially in medieval and Renaissance Christian traditions.

Linguistic Development:

The name Magdalene was pronounced "Maudelen" or "Maudlin" in Middle English.

This emotional image of Mary Magdalene led "maudlin" to become associated with tearful sentimentality.

Modern Meaning:

By the 17th century, “maudlin” came to mean excessively or tearfully sentimental, especially when influenced by alcohol.

Answer 2

The word "maudlin" comes from the Middle English "Maudelayne," a reference to Mary Magdalene, who is often depicted weeping in religious paintings. This association with excessive emotion led to the term's current meaning, describing someone who is overly sentimental or tearfully emotional. The term evolved in the 16th century, reflecting the notion of someone being drunk and overly sentimental. Over time, it became more broadly associated with any excessive display of emotion.