bathetic etymology

Etymology:

• Greek "bathos" (depth) + "-etic" (causing)

Meaning:

Bathetic is an adjective that describes something that is characterized by excessive or overdone sentimentality, often to the point of becoming ridiculous or absurd. It is typically used to describe literature, art, or speech that aims for emotional impact but fails to achieve it effectively.

Origin:

The term was first used in literary criticism in the 18th century to describe the style of writing that emphasized exaggerated emotions and melodrama. It became more widely used in the 19th century, particularly in reference to poetry and novels that were seen as overly sentimental.

Usage:

Bathetic is often used in a negative sense to criticize writing or speech that is considered to be too emotional or lacking in restraint. It can also be used more lightly to describe something that is excessively sentimental or over-the-top.

Examples:

• The author's attempt to evoke sympathy for the character was bathetic and ultimately undermined the story's emotional impact.
• The movie was full of bathetic scenes that seemed forced and unnatural.
• The politician's speech was so bathetic that it drew laughter from the audience.

bathetic relate terms

• bathos

  Etymology The word bathos comes from the Greek word βάθος bathos meaning dept

• benthos

  Etymology From Greek benthos meaning depth of the sea or sea bottom Meaning

• pathetic

  Etymology The word pathetic comes from the Greek word pathos meaning suffering or