sentimental

word

/ˌsɛnəˈmɛnəɫ/
sen-uh-MEN-tuhl
/sˌɛntɪmˈɛntəl/
sen-ti-MEN-tuhl

Definition

Showing strong feelings, especially tenderness, nostalgia, or emotional attachment. It can describe someone who is easily moved by emotions, or something that is meant to create those feelings.

Usage & Nuances

Often positive when talking about warm memories or meaningful objects, but it can be slightly negative if someone is 'too sentimental' or not practical enough. Common combinations: 'sentimental value', 'sentimental person', 'sentimental about'. Do not confuse it with 'sensitive', which means easily affected emotionally or physically.

Example Sentences

My grandmother keeps this old ring because it is sentimental.

basic

He gets sentimental when he talks about his childhood.

basic

She gets sentimental about old family photos.

natural

That movie is very sentimental.

basic

I'm not usually sentimental, but that song really got to me.

natural

I know it sounds sentimental, but I can't throw this letter away.

natural