Fulsome

/ˈfʊlsəm/ adjective

Definition

Excessively flattering, complimentary, or enthusiastic in a way that seems insincere or overdone.

Etymology

From Middle English, combining full with -some (meaning full of). Originally it just meant 'full' or 'abundant,' but by the 16th century it developed the negative sense of 'excessively full' or insincere praise.

Kelly Says

Fulsome praise is the worst kind of compliment—it's so over-the-top that it makes you suspicious of the person's motives, which is why this word went from neutral to negative over time.

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