sentimental

/ˌsɛntiˈmɛntl̩/

Group 27Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Of or prompted by feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia; excessively prone to such feelings
GRE

Example in Context

The politician's sentimental appeals to a bygone era resonated with older voters but rang hollow with younger constituents facing very different challenges.

Synonyms

emotionalnostalgictender

Etymology

Derived from 'to feel', suggesting an emotional response often tied to nostalgia.

  • sentire (Latin) — to feel

Memory Aid

💔Sounds like “sent a mental

When I SENT A MENTAL postcard to my ex, I got all SENTIMENTAL and started crying!

Visual Association

😢A person reminiscing over old photos, tears streaming down their face as they recall sweet memories.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “sentimental” mean on the GRE?

sentimental (adjective) means “Of or prompted by feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia; excessively prone to such feelings”. The politician's sentimental appeals to a bygone era resonated with older voters but rang hollow with younger constituents facing very different challenges.

How to remember “sentimental” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “sentimental” sounds like “sent a mental”. When I SENT A MENTAL postcard to my ex, I got all SENTIMENTAL and started crying!

What are synonyms for “sentimental”?

Common synonyms: emotional, nostalgic, tender.