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.
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